% t ! I OUR NATIONAL 
GOVERNMENT 




1907 







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Class 5Ks»5l 

Book JJU JU^- 

Copyright N° . 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. 





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COPYRIGHTED, 1907, 

BY 

GEO. P. WILLHAUCK. 



5 






LIBRARY of CONGRESS 

Two Copies Received 

MAR KB 1907 

[i Copyright Entry 

j&ASS f\ XXc.,'N(/. 
(7/ t vT^L^9 
COPY B. / 




PREFACE. 




HE author lays before the teachers of this country 
this short treatise on the Constitution of the United 
States with the hope that it may render this study 
interesting* and profitable. 

It is to be deplored that this branch of study is 
entirely neglected in most of our common schools and 
academies. For an excuse it is urged that the branch is 
too difficult for children. Why should it be? The pupils 
are required to learn a hundred and one questions in 
Geography and other branches, that are more difficult 
than those in this book. Much of this knowledge has no 
practical value for the child in after life. Why not devote 
some of the time, thuf6 lost, to a study that has actual value? 
One of the principal objects of education is, to make 
good and loyal citizens. How can a school accomplish 
this, where the children are not instructed in their duties 
and rights as citizens? Ask the pupils at school almost any 
reasonable question in Geography, History, etc., and many 
are ready to reply without hesitation. But ask them what 
is needed, when they grow up, to entitle them to vote; what 
Congress is, etc., and profound silence reigns in the school- 
room. Why should this be so? Is a knowledge of these 
facts of no importance to the children? Every teacher, 
deserving of the name, can find the correct answers to 
these questions. 



The plan laid down in this work, is the one followed 
by the author for the last fifteen years in teaching* this 
branch to pupils between the ages of eleven and fourteen 
years. 

When a short course is desired, the author begins 
with the Constitution. The pupils are required to mem- 
orize the answers not marked with an asterisk. All the 
other matter contained in the book, is read by the pupils 
and discussed with them. Two or three classes per week, 
say of fifteen minutes each, are sufficient to complete the 
short course in one term. 

The long course embraces all the answers, leaving it 
to the judgment of the teacher, however, to omit such 
answers as he deems not of sufficient importance to be com- 
mitted to memory. The author uses the long course in 
this manner: The pupils of the 6th grade memorize all 
answers'not marked with the asterisk. The pupils of the 
7th grade review the answers memorized in the 6th grade, 
and also learn those marked with the asterisk. One or two 
lessons a week are sufficient to complete the long course if 
extended to two years. If, however, only one year is 
allotted to this study, two or three classes a week are 
required. Any teacher capable to teach the common 
branches can, with the aid of this little book, teach this 

branch successfully. 

THE AUTHOR. 



Our National Government. 



PART I. 



INTRODUCTORY. 



CHAPTER I. 

Government in General. 

1. What is government? 

Government is the organized power by which a 
state or nation manages its affairs and insures its 
existence. 

2. What should be the object of every government? 

The object of every government should be the 
establishment, preservation, and promotion of the 
public welfare. 

3. How is this object attained? 

This object is attained by enacting and enforcing 
good laws. 

4. Name the principal forms of government. 

The principal forms of government are the Mon- 
archial and the Democratic. 

*5. What is a Monarchial Form of government? 

A Monarchial Form of government is one in which 
the authority to govern is vested in one person, 
called Emperor, King, Prince, etc. . 

Monarchies are either limited or absolute. In a Limited 
Monarchy the ruler only enforces the laws made by an elective 
law-making body of that government. To make these laws valid, 
the ruler's assent is necessary. He must obey all laws as every 



6 OUR NA TIONAL GO VERNMENT. 

other citizen. All important monarchies of the present day are 
limited. Examples — Great Britain, Germany, Japan, etc. 

In an Absolute Monarchy the ruler makes and enforces the 
laws at his pleasure. He himself is accountable to no earthly 
authority. The property, liberty, and life of his subjects are at 
his disposal. The fear of personal violence and of revolution, 
however, is a powerful check on his lawless desires. Examples — 
Russia, Turkey. 

6. What is a Democratic Form of government? 

A Democratic Form of government is one in which 
the authority to govern is vested in the feoj)le — 
either as a body, or in their representatives. 

A Democracy in which all the qualified voters of the state 
or nation meet to make and execute the laws, is called a Pure or 
Absolute Democracy. This form of democracy is not practicable, 
and is virtually extinct. 

A Democracy in which the people are governed by repre- 
sentatives, chosen by themselves, is called a Representative 
Democracy, or a Republic, This form of democracy is practic- 
able, and is found in all important republics. 

7. What is a Republic? 

A Republic is a country in which the laws are 
made and executed by men elected by the voters of 
the country. Examples — United States, France, etc. 

Our Government is sometimes called a Federal Republic, 
because it is a republic arising- from the federation or union of 
many smaller republics, called States. 



CHAPTER H. 
Our Government from 1775-1781. 

8. By what were the States united from 1775-1781? 

From 1775-1781 the States were united by the 
bonds of common interest. They had no written 
Constitution. 

In the beginning of the war (1775) the thirteen colonies 
fought against England for their rights. After the Declaration 



O UR NA TIONAL G O VERNMENT. 7 

of Independence, July 4, 1776, they fought for their liberty, and 
assumed the name of Independent States. 

9. By whom were the affairs of our Government managed during 
this period? 

During- this period the affairs of our Govern- 
ment were managed by the Continental Congress. 

This Congress was composed of delegates from the differ- 
ent States. 
*10. What powers did the Continental Congress assume? 

The Continental Congress assumed all the pow- 
ers needed to maintain the independence and the 
safety of the States. 
*11. What justified Congress in assuming these powers? 

The Right of Self-defense justified the Conti- 
nental Congress in assuming these powers. 

As the war progressed the States realized that some definite 
plan of government was needed, and Congress appointed a com- 
mittee to draft a plan. The report of this committee was 
adopted by Congress in 1777, under the name of the * 'Articles 
of Confederation. " They were submitted to the States for rat- 
ification. Some of the States, however, were unwilling to 
ratify them; jealousy, rivalry, and the fear of losing their 
rights, were the main causes. It was not until 1781 that these 
Articles were ratified by the thirteen States, and became the 
basis of our Government. 



CHAPTER III. 
Our Government trom 1781-1789. 

12. What formed the basis of our Government from 1781-1789? 

From 1781-1789 a written constitution, called 
the Articles of Confederation, formed the basis of 
our Government. 
These Articles united the States in a bond of friendship, 
chiefly for the common defense. Each State retained its inde- 
pendence and sovereignty, thus withholding from Congress the 
Supreme Power so necessary for an effective government. 



8 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

13. In whom did the Articles vest the power of government ? 

The Articles of Confederation vested the power 
of government in one body, called Congress. 

This Congress could make laws, but it lacked the power to 
enforce them. There was no separate executive department to 
enforce the laws, and no judiciary department to interpret 
them. 

14. Of whom was this Congress composed? 

This Congress was composed of delegates from 
each State. 

Each State was entitled to equal representation, and had 
but one vote on any question. Every State chose its own dele- 
gates by its own laws, and paid their expenses. 

15. Name some of the powers this Congress had. 

This Congress had power to raise armies, cre- 
ate navies, to coin and borrow money, to commis- 
sion United States officers, etc. 

The people soon realized that the Government must have more 
power, if the Union was to be preserved. Congress made sev- 
eral attempts to remedy the defects in the Art. of Conf . , but it 
failed. 

16. Name some of the defects in these Articles. 

The Articles of Confederation did not give Con- 
gress the power to levy taxes in order to pay off 
the National debt and to support the Government. 
The States had also retained the Controlling 
Power, leaving Congress powerless to enforce its 
decrees. 

17. What was done to remedy these defects? 

In 1787 a convention, composed of delegates 
from the States, met at Philadelphia for the pur- 
pose of forming a more perfect union by revising 
the Articles of Confederation. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 9 

18. What was the result? 

The present Constitution of the United States 
was the result; the Articles of Confederation being 
too defective to admit of a revision. 

19. What was done with the new Constitution? 

The Convention adopted this Constitution, and 
laid it before Congress for approval. It was then 
submitted to the people, not the States, to reject, 
or ratify it. Eleven of the thirteen States had 
signed it by 1788. 

According to Article VII of the Constitution, the ratification 
of nine States was necessary to establish these Articles between 
the States ratifying them. 



PART II. 

Our Government under the Present Constitution. 



CHAPTER IV. 

General View, 

20. What is the Constitution of the United States? 

The Constitution of the United States is a writ- 
ten document, explaining how our Government is 
organized, and what powers it has. 

*21. When did the Consitution go into effect? 

The present Constitution went into effect dur- 
ing* the early part of 1789. 

The introductory paragraph of the Constitution is called the 
"Preamble. " It names the six objects the Constitution is to 
accomplish. 

THE PREAMBLE, 

''We, the people of the United States, in order to form a more 
perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquillity, provide 
for the common defence, promote the general welfare, and secure the 
blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and estab- 
lish this Constitution for the United States of America." 

22. Name the six objects the Constitution is to accomplish. 

These objects are: 1st, To form a more perfect 
union; 2d, To establish justice; 3d, To insure 
domestic tranquillity; 4th, To provide for the 
common defence; 5th, To promote the general 
welfare; 6th, To insure the blessings of liberty to 
ourselves and our posterity. 

The 5th object is the most important 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 11 

23. By whom was the Constitution ordained and established? 

The Constitution was ordained and established 
by the people of the United States. 
The Art. of Conf. were instituted by the States. 

24. In whom does the Constitution vest the powers of government? 

The Constitution vests the powers of govern- 
ment in three departments; the Legislative, the 
Executive, and the |udicial. 

25. What are the duties of each department? 

The Legislative Department makes the laws; 
the Executive Department enforces them; the 
Judicial Department interprets them. 



CHAPTER V. 

The ^Legislative Department. 

Article I. — Section 1. 

"All legislative powers, herein granted, shall be vested in Congress 
of 1he United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of 
Representatives. " 

26. In whom is all Legislative Power vested? 

All Legislative Power granted in the Constitu- 
tion to the Government, is vested in a Congress of 
the United States. 

The Constitution is the Supreme Law of our country. Laws 
made by Congress, or by the State Legislatures (General 
Assemblies) are called Statute Laws. The laws made by 
Congress bind all States. No State can nullify a law made 
by Congress. Any law made that conflicts with the Constitu- 
tion, is unconstitutional, and is null and void. 

27. Of what is Congress composed? 

Congress is composed of two branches, the 
Senate and the House of Representatives. 



12 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

Senate— Upper House; House of Representatives—Lower 
House. Congress is composed of two branches, to prevent hasty 
and dishonest legislation; one House acts as a check on the other. 



CHAPTER VI. 

The House of Representatives. 

Article I. — Section 2. 

Clause 1. "The House of Representatives shall be composed oj 
members chosen every second year by the people of the several States, 
and the electors in each State shall have the qualifications requisite for 
electors of the most numerous branch of the Slate % legislature. ' ■ 

28. By whom are the members of the House of Representatives 
elected? 

The members of the House of Representatives 
are elected by the voters of the different States. 

The Representatives represent the people of the United 
States, speaking-, acting, and voting-, for the people's interests. 

29. What is the term of office? 

Representatives are elected for a term of two 
years. 
The election is held in the even-numbered years. 

Clause 2. "No person shall be a Representative, who shall not 
have attained the age of twenty-five years, and been seven years a citi- 
zen of the United States, and who shall not, when elected, be an inhab- 
itant of that State in which he shall be chosen." 

30. What are the qualifications needed to become a Representative? 

To become a Representative a person must be 
twenty-five years old; be a citizen of the United 
States for seven years; and be an inhabitant of the 
State for which elected. 

Custom has established the rule that a Representative of a 
district be an actual resident of that district. 

Clause 3. "Representatives and direct taxes shall be apportioned 
among the several States which may be included within this Union, 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 13 

according to their respective numbers, which shall be determined by 
adding to the whole number of free persons, including those bound to 
service for a term of years, and excluding Indians not taxed, three- 
fifths of all other persons. The actual enumeration shall be made 
within three years after the first meeting of the Congress of the United 
States, and within every subsequent term of ten years, in such manner 
as they shall by law direct The number of Representatives shall not 
exceed one for every thirty thousand, but each State shall have at least 
one Representative; and until such enumeration shall be made, the 
State of New Hampshire shall be entitled to chose three, Massachu- 
setts eight, Rhode Island and Providence Plantation one, Connecticut 
five, New York six, New Jersey four, Pennsylvania eight, Delaware 
one, Maryland six, Virginia ten, North Carolina five, South Caro- 
lina five, and Georgia three. 

31. How many Representatives has a State? 

The number of Representatives a State is 
entitled to, depends upon its population. 

32. What is done to apportion the Representation for each State? 

To apportion the Representation for each State, 
the census of the United States is taken up every 
decade year. 

33. To how many Representatives is a State entitled by the census 
of 1900? 

By the census of 1900 a State is entitled to one 
Representative for every 194,182 inhabitants. 

34. How is each State divided to elect its Representatives? 

Each State is divided into as many Congress- 
ional Districts as it has Representatives in Con- 
gress. Each district elects its own Representa- 
tive. 

35. How many members has the House at present (1907)? 

The House of Representatives now has 391 
members. 



14 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

A Territory has one delegate in the H. of Rep. who may 
speak on all questions relating to his Territory; but he may 
not vote. 

N. B. For table of Representation see Appendix. 

Clause 4. "When vacancies happen in the representation from 
any State \ the executive authority thereof shall issue writs of election 
to fill such vacancies." 

36. What is done when a vacancy occurs in the House ? 

When a vacancy occurs in the representation of 
a State, the Governor of that State orders an elec- 
tion to be held in the vacant district. 

The voters of this district elect a person to complete the unex- 
pired term. 

Clause 5. * ' The House of Representatives shall choose their 
speak er, and other officers; and shall have the sole power of impeach- 
ment" 

37. Who chooses the officers of the House? 

The House of Representatives chooses its own 
Speaker, and the other officers needed. 

The Speaker is a member of the House; the other officers are 
not; these officers are a Clerk, Serge ant- at- arms, Doorkeeper, 
Postmaster, and Chaplain. 

The Speaker is the highest officer of the House. He repre- 
sents the House on all official occasions, and ranks next to the 
Vice-President. He presides at the meetings of the House, and 
has the privilege of selecting all the committees of this body. 

The Clerk writes up the membership roll, has charge of the 
bills brought before the House, keeps a record of the daily bus- 
iness, etc. 

The Serjeant-at-arms is the police officer of the House. 

The Door-keeper has charge of the Hall. He admits only 
such persons as have a right to enter. The galleries, designed 
for the use of visitors, are also under his charge. 

The Postmaster attends to the special post-office of the 
House. 

The Chaplain opens the daily sessions with prayer. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 15 

38. What sole power has this House? 

The House of Representatives has the sole 
power of impeachment. 

39. What do you mean by the term "to impeach"? 

To impeach is, to accuse a civil officer of the 
United States of official misconduct. 

These officers can be impeached for treason, bribery, or 
other high crimes and misdemeanors. 

40. Who can be impeached? 

The President, the Vice-President, and all civil 
officers of the United States can be impeached. 

The Members of Congress are not considered civil officers. 
Military and Naval officers must be tried before a military 
court. 



CHAPTER VII. 

The Senate of the United States. 

Article I.— Section 3. 

Clause 1. "The Senate of the United States shall be composed 
of two Senators from each State, chosen by the Legislature thereof for 
six years; and each Senator shall have one vote. 

41. Of what is the Senate composed? 

The Senate of the United States is composed of 
two Senators from each State. 

The Senators represent the State Governments. At present 
(1907) there are 46 States, therefore, there are 92 members in 
the Senate. 

42. By whom and for how long are the Senators elected? 

The Senators are elected by their State Legis- 
lature for a term of six years. 

Clause 2. "Immediately after they shall be assembled, in conse- 
quence of the first election, they shall be divided, as equally as may be, 



16 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

into three classes. The seats of the Senators of the first class shall be 
vacated at the expiration of the second year; of the second class at the 
expiration of the fourth year; and of the third class, at the expiration 
of I he sixth year; so that one-third may be chosen every second year; 
and if vacancies happen by resignation, or otherwise, during the recess 
of the legislature of any State, the executive thereof may make tem- 
porary appointments until the next meeting of the legislature, which 
shall then fill such vacancies." 

*43. What proportion of the Senators is chosen every second year? 

According- to the provision made in the Consti- 
tution, one-third of the Senators is chosen every 
second year. 

By this arrangement the Senate always has a considerable 
number of members who are well informed on the public affairs. 

44. When a vacancy occurs in the Senate, how is it filled? 

When a vacancy occurs in the Senate, the Gov- 
ernor of the respective State appoints a person to 
the position, until the State Legislature meets and 
elects a new Senator for the unexpired term. 

Clause 3. ki No person shall be a Senator who shall not have 
attained to the age of thirty years, and been nine years a citizen of the 
United States, and who shall not, when elected, be an inhabitant of 
that State for which he shall be chosen." 

45. What qualifications are necessary to become a Senator? 

To become a Senator a person must be thirty 
years old; be a citizen of the United States for nine 
years; and be an inhabitant of the State for which 
elected. 

Clause 4. " The Vice-President of the United States shall be 
President of the Senate, but shall have no vote, unless they be equally 
divided. ' ' 

46. Who is the President of the Senate? 

The Vice-President of the United States is the 
President of the Senate. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 17 

If it were not for this provision, the Vice-President would 
have no duties to perform, while the President continued in 
office. 

4T. Has the Vice-President a vote on questions before the Senate? 

The Vice-President, not being- a Senator, has 

no vote except when both sides are equally divided 

upon some question. His vote is then called the 

casting- vote. 

Clause 5. "The Senate shall choose their other officers, and also 
a President pro tempore, in the absence of the Vice-President y or when 
he shall exercise the office of President of the United States." 

48. Who chooses the officers of the Senate? 

The Senate chooses all its officers except its 
President. None of the officers is a member of 
the Senate. 

49. If the Vice-President cannot attend a meeting of the Senate, 
what is done? 

If the Vice-President is absent from a meeting 
of the Senate, the Senate chooses one of its mem- 
bers to fill his place until he returns. 

If the Vice-President dies, resigns, or becomes President, 
the Senator elected to fill his place, becomes the permanent 
President of the Senate, but not Vice-President of the United 
SUtes. 

U. B. The term "pro tempore' ■ signifies for the time being. 

Clause 6. ■ * The Senate shall have the sole power to try all im- 
peachments. When sitting for that purpose, they shall be on oath or 
affirmation. When the President of the United States is tried, the 
Chief Justice shall preside ; and no person shall be convicted without 
the concurrence of two-thirds of the members present. " 

50. What sole power has the Senate? 

The Senate has the sole power to try all im- 
peachments. 
This judicial power is vested in the Senate, because the 
offense in question is more of a political than of a civil nature. 



18 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

A case of impeachment is brought before the Senate by a 
committee from the House of Representatives. The Senate 
then resolves itself into a court. The President of the Senate 
represents the judge; the Senators, the jury. The trial is con- 
ducted similar to that in other courts. 

During the trial the Senators are under oath or affirmation, 
to give their decision according to the evidence heard during 
the trial. 

*51. Who presides when the President of the United States is tried? 
When the President of theUnited States is tried. 
the Chief justice of the Supreme Court presides 
at the trial. 

52. What is required to convict a person? 

To convict, or find a person guilty, a vote of 
two-thirds of the Senators present is required. 

Clause 7. "Judgment in cases of impeachment shall not extend 
further than to removal from office, and disqualification to hold and 
enjoy any office of honor, trust or profit under the United States; but 
the party convicted shall nevertheless be liable and subject to indict- 
ment, trial, judgment and punishment, according to law. 

53. If convicted, what punishment can the Senate inflict? 

If a person is convicted, the Senate can only 
remove him from office, or disqualify him from 
holding- any United States office in the future. 

54. Is the person convicted liable to trial and punishment by law? 

The person convicted is liable to trial and pun- 
ishment by law, if the offense is one punishable 
by law. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Both Houses. 

Article I. — Section 4. 
Clause 1. "The times, places, and manner, of holding elections 
for Senators and Representatives, shall be prescribed in each State by 
the Legislature thereof, but the Congress may at any lime, by law, 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 19 

make or alter any regulations, except as to the places of choosing 
Senators," 

*55. By whom are the times, places, and manner of holding- elections 
for Senators and Representatives prescribed? 

The times, places, and manner of holding- elec- 
tions for Senators and Representatives, are pre- 
scribed by each State Legislature; Congress, how- 
ever, has power at any time, by law, to make or 
alter these regulations, except as to the place of 
choosing Senators. 
The time for the election of Representatives has been pre- 
scribed by Congress to be the Tuesday next after the first Mon- 
day in November of the even numbered years. 
Clause 2. "The Congress shall assemble at least once in every 
year, and such meeting shall be on the first Monday in December, 
unless they shall by law appoint a different day" 

56. How often and when must Congress meet? 

Congress must assemble at least once a year. 
The meeting begins on the first Monday in Decem- 
ber, unless Congress, by law, appoints another 
day. 
Each Congress extends over two years, and has two regular 
sessions. The first session may extend over a whole year, but 
it must close in time for the second session to begin. The sec- 
ond session closes by noon on the 4th of March after its open- 
ing, because a new Congress then comes into power. The first 
session is called the long session, the second, the short session. 
The daily sittings, or sessions, begin at twelve o'clock noon, 
unless the members change the hour. A session usually takes 
up from four to six hours. When very busy, it frequently hap- 
pens that one or both Houses are in session until after mid- 
night. 

Special sessions of one or both Houses are convened by the 
President of the United States, when business occurs that 
requires immediate attention. 

57. In what years is a new Congress organized? 

A new Congress is organized every odd-num- 
bered year. 



20 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

CHAPTER IX. 
The Houses Separately. 

Article I. — Section 5. 

Clause 1. "Each House shall be the judge of the elections, 
returns, and qualifications of its own members, and a majority, of 
each shall constitute a quorum to do business; but a smaller number 
may adjourn from day to day, and may be authorized to compel the 
attendance of absent members, in such manner, and under such penal- 
ties, as each House may provide." 

*58. Who is the judge of the elections, returns, and qualifications 
of the members of each House? 

Each House is the judge of the elections, 
returns, and qualifications of its own members. 

Each Senator and Representative receives a certificate of his 
election (credentials) from the proper authorities of his State. 
If the validity of this certificate is questioned, a special com- 
mittee is appointed in that House to examine into the matter 
and make a report. The person, however, is considered a 
member in good standing while the investigation is in progress. 

59. What is a quorum? 

A quorum is the number of members necessary 
to transact business. 

60. What constitutes a quorum in either House? 

A Majority in either House constitutes a 
quorum. 

By a majority is meant more than half the members. Half 
or less constitutes a minority. 

*61. What two privileges has the Minority? 

The Minority may adjourn from day to day, or 
it may compel the absent members to attend, in 
such a manner, and under such penalties, as each 
House provides. 

Clause 2. "Each House may determine the rules of its proceed- 
ings, punish its members for disorderly behavior, and, with the concur- 
rence of two-thirds, expel a members* 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 21 

62. Who makes the rules for each House, and punishes the members 
for bad behavior? 

Each House makes its own rules, and punishes 
its members for bad behavior. 

63, When can they expel a member? 

If two-thirds of the members concur, they can 
expel a member. 

Clause 3. "Each House shall keep a journal of its proceedings, 
and, f torn time to time, publish the same, excepting such parts as may, 
in their judgment, require secrecy \ and the yeas and nays of the mem- 
bers of either House, on any question, shall, at the desire oj one-fijth oj 
those present, be entered on the journal." 

*64. Must each House keep a journal of its proceeding's? 

Each House must keep a journal (record) of its 
proceedings, and publish it from time to time. 
The Government has its own printing office. It is controlled 
by Congress. 

An official newspaper, the "Congressional Record,'' is daily 
published by Congress. It contains an account of what 
occurred in Congress the day before. 

65. When must the vote on any question be taken by the yeas and 
nays? 

If one-fifth of the members present desire it, the 
roll must be called, and the yeas and nays on any 
question must be recorded on the journal. 

This privilege is often abused. Members opposed to the 

passage of a certain bill, demand the roll-call on trifling 

points; and, by this method, take up the time needed to pass 

such bill. 

Clause 4. "Neither House, during the session of Congress, shall, 

without the consent of the other, adjourn for more than three days, nor 

to any other place than that in which the two Houses shall be sitting." 

66. What restriction is there to adjournment? 

Neither House, during the session of Congress, 
has the power to adjourn for more than three 
days without the consent of the other House. 



22 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

The adjournment of Congress depends 1st, on constitutional 
limitation; (no Congress can extend beyond two years); 2d, on 
both Houses; 3d, on the President of the United States, when 
the two Houses cannot agree on the time of adjournment. 

67. What restriction is there regarding the place of meeting? 

Neither House has the right to meet at any 
other place than that in which both Houses are 
meeting-. 

The President is authorized by law to convene Congress at 
some other place than Washington if conditions arise that 
make such action necessary. 



CHAPTER X. 

Compensation, Privileges, and Prohibitions on Members. 

Article I. — Section 6. 

Clause 1. " The Senators and Representatives shall receive a 
compensation for their services, to be ascertained by law, and paid out 
of the Treasury of the United States* They shall, in all cases except 
treason, felony, and breach of the peace, be privileged from arrest dur- 
ing their attendance at the session of their respective Houses, and in 
going to, and returning from, the same; and for any speech or debate 
in either House, they shall not be questioned in any other place." 

*68. What is the salary of Senators and Representatives? 

The salary of Senators and Representatives is 
$7,500 a year, and 20c mileage going and coming*, 
on business, to and from Washington, D. C. 

Each member is also allowed $125 per year for stationery. 

*69. How is the salary fixed and paid? 

The salary is fixed by law, and is paid out of 
the Treasury of the United States. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 23 

*70. What privilege of freedom from arrest have Senators and 
Representatives ? 

Senators and Representatives cannot be ar- 
rested during- a session of their House, nor in 
going to or returning* from the same, except for 
crime. 

Treason, felony, and breach of the peace are criminal 
offenses. 

*71# What freedom of speech do they enjoy? 

Senators and Representatives may express 
their opinion on any question before their House, 
and they cannot be legally called to account for 
doing- so, at any other place. 

If a member abuses this privilege by using offensive or 
insulting language, the members of his House can compel him 
to apologize, or even expel him. 

Clause 2. * 'No Senator or Representative shall, during the time 
for which he was elected, be appointed to any civil office under the 
authority of the United States, which shall have been created, or the 
emoluments whereof shall have been increased, during such time; and 
no pet son, holding any office under the United States, shall be a mem- 
ber of either House during his continuance in office." 

*72. Is a Senator or Representative eligible to a civil office of the 
United States during his term as member of Congress? 

A Senator or Representative is not eligible to a 
civil office of the United States, unless he resig-n 
his seat in Congress; but this office must not 
have been created, or the salary of same must not 
have been increased, during- his term as a mem- 
ber of either House. 

*73. Can a person, holding a civil office under the United States, 
become a member of either House of Congress? 

No person holding a civil office under the United 
States, can become a member of either House of 
Congress, while holding said office. 



24 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

CHAPTER XI. 

Manner of Passing Laws. 

Article I.— Section 7. 

74. What is a bill? 

A bill is a sketch of a proposed law. 

Clause 1. "All bills for raising revenue shall originate in the 
House of Representatives; but the Senate may propose or concur with 
amendments, as on other bills." 

75. Where may bills originate? 

All bills, excepting- revenue bills, may originate 
in either House of Congress. 

A bill is introduced by a member of either House. The 
presiding- officer of that House refers it to the proper commit- 
tee. The committee considers the bill and reports on it. If 
the report is favorable, the bill is ordered to be printed and is 
then distributed among the members. 

Every bill is read before the house at three different times. 
After the second reading, it is debated and may be amended. 
After the third reading, it is voted on. If the majority votes 
for it, it has passed that House; if not, it is lost. If it passed, 
it is forwarded to the other House, where it passes through 
the same process. If it passes in that House, it is returned 
to the House where it originated. It is then written on parch- 
ment and forwarded to the President of the United States for 
his signature. 

76. Where must all Revenue Bills originate? 

All Revenue Bills must originate in the House 
of Representatives; the Senate, however, may 
propose or concur with amendments, as on other 
bills. 

Revenue is money collected by the government for its sup- 
port. Revenue Bills must originate in the House of Represen- 
tatives, because "Taxation without Representation" is against 
American principles. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 25 

Clause 2. "Every bill which shall have passed the House of Rep- 
resentatives and the Senate, shall, before it becomes a law, be presented 
to the President of the United States; if he approve, he shall sign it, 
but if not, he shall return it, with his objections, to that House in 
which it shall have originated, who shall enter the objections at large 
on their journal, and proceed to reconsider it. If , after such recon- 
sideration, two-thirds of that House shall agree to pass the bill, it shall 
be sent, together with the objections, to the other House, by which it 
shall likewise be reconsidered, and, if approved by two-thirds of that 
House, it shall become a law. But in all such cases the votes of both 
Houses shall be determined by yeas and nays, and the names of the 
persons voting for and against the bill, shall be entered on the journal 
of each House, respectively. If any bill shall not be returned by the 
President within ten days (Sundays excepted) after it shall have been 
presented to him, the same shall be a law in like mamier as if he 
had signed it, unless the Congress, by their adjournment, prevent its 
return, in which case it shall not be a law." 

77# In how many ways does a bill become a law? 

A bill becomes a law in three ways: 1st, By the 
President signing it; 2d, Over his veto; 3d, By 
non-return in ten days, Sundays excepted. 

First Way. The bill passes both Houses, is presented to 
the President, and he signs it. 

Second Way. The bill passes both Houses, is presented 
to the President, and he vetoes it; that is, he refuses to sign it, 
because, in his opinion, the bill is unwise or unconstitutional. 
He must then return the bill to the House where it originated, 
giving his objections (reasons) for vetoing it. These objections 
are then entered upon the journal of that House. The bill is 
then reconsidered, and the vote is taken by roll-call, the yeas 
and nays being entered upon the journal. If two-thirds of 
the members vote in favor of the bill, the bill and the Presi- 
dent's objections arc forwarded to the other House. Here it is 
subjected to the same process. If the bill passes both Houses, 
it is a law. This is called "Passing a Law over the Presi- 
dent's head." 

Third Way. The bill passes both Houses, and is presented 
to the President. He does not sign or return it within ten 
days, Sundays excepted. It then becomes a law at the end of 
ten days, unless Congress, by adjourning, prevents its return. 



26 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

Clause 3. "Every order, resolution, or vote, to which the con- 
currence of the Senate a,7id House of Representatives may be necessary 
{except on a question of adjournment), shall be presented to the Presi- 
dent of the United States; and before the same shall take effect, shall 
be approved by him, or, being disapproved by him, shall be repassed 
by two-thirds of the Senate and House of Representatives, according 
to the rules and limitations prescribed in the case of a bill." 

*78. What must be done with every order, resolution, or vote, to 
which the consent of both Houses is necessary? 

Every order, resolution, or vote, to which the 
concurrence of both Houses is necessary, adjourn- 
ment excepted, must be treated just like a bill, 
before it becomes effective. 

This provision was made to prevent Congress from passing a 
law without the President's signature, by introducing the pro- 
posed law in some other form than that of a bill. 



CHAPTER XII. 

The Law-making Powers of Congress. 

Article I. — Section 8. 
79. What law-making power has Congress? 

Congress has the power to enact all necessary 
laws for the support of the Government, for the 
payment of its debts, for the common defense, 
and for the general welfare of the people. 
Clause 1. Congress shall have power; 

"To lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, to pay the 
debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the 
United States; but all- duties, imposts, and excises shall be uniform 
throughout the United States." 

Taxes are of two kinds, direct and indirect. 
Direct taxes are taxes upon a person, or upon prop- 
erty. An indirect tax is a tax upon the consump- 
tion of certain articles. Indirect taxes are levied 



OUR NA TIONAL GO VERNMENT. 27 

upon imports, exports, and manufactures. Im- 
posts are taxes upon imported goods. Duties and 
Customs are taxes upon goods imported, or 
exported. Excises are taxes upon goods manu- 
factured in the county. 

Clause 2. Congress shall have power; 

"To borrow money on the credit of the United States." 

It is necessary for Congress to have this power, 
so that the Government may be able to raise the 
money needed during war-time, or in case of some 
great public calamity. When the United States 
borrow money, the credit of the whole country is 
pledged for its payment. 

Clause 3. Congress shall have power; 

1 * To regulate commerce with foreign nations, and among the sev- 
eral States, and with the Indian tribes." 

Regulating commerce is making the laws by 
which commerce is governed. Commerce con- 
sists in the interchange of commodities. 

Clause 4. Congress shall have power; 

"To establish a uniform rule of naturalization, and uniform laws 
on the subject oj bankruptcies, throughout the United States, 

By naturalization is meant the legal .process by 
which an alien, or foreigner, is granted the right 
of citizenship. In our country this gives such a 
person all the rights of a native-born citizen, ex- 
cept eligibility to the offices of President and 
Vice-President. 

No alien can be compelled to become a citizen. 
If he desires to become a citizen of the United 
States, he must have lived five years within the 
United States and be able to speak the English 
language. 



28 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

The process of naturalization under the present 
law, signed by the President of the United States 
on June 29, 1906, is as follows: 

An alien must make oath or affirmation before 
the clerk of an authorized court, that he desires to 
. become a citizen of the United States, and he must 
renounce all allegiance to any foreign government. 
This declaration of intention must be made after 
he is eighteen years old, and at least two years 
before the final step is taken. He is then given 
his first papers, which contain his declaration of 
intention, his name, age, occupation, personal 
description, birth-place, his place of residence in 
his fatherland, date of arrival, name of ship on 
which he arrived, and his present dwelling place. 

When the required time has expired, and he can 
speak the English language, he must prove in open 
court that he has resided continuously within the 
United States for five years, and within the State 
or territory where the court is held, for at least 
one year. He must make oath or affirmation to 
support the Constitution of the United States, and 
absolutely renounce all allegiance and fealty to all 
foreign governments. He is then given his citi- 
zenship-papers, which must have the written sig- 
nature of the presiding judge. 

The bankrupt law provides for the division of 
the property of an insolvent debtor among his 
creditors. It also frees him from any legal obli- 
gation to pay the debts, which are not settled by 
this method. (He is, however, bound in conscience 
to pay these debts, if he can do so later on). The 
present bankrupt law was passed in 1898. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 29 

Clause 5. Congress shall have power; 

44 To coin money, regulate the value thereof, and of foreign coin, 
and fix the standard of weights and measures. 

If each State were permitted to issue money and 
regulate the value thereof, the result would be 
endless confusion. The same also applies to 
weights and measures. We now have uniform 
money, weights, and measures, throughout the 
United States. 

Clause 6. Congress shall have power; 

"7*0 provide for the punishment of counterfeiting the securities 
and current coin of the United States. " 

Counterfeiting consists in imitating the securi- 
ties (bonds) of the United and in making false 
money. 
Clause 7. — Congress shall have power; 
4 4 To establish post offices and post roads." 

If each State were permitted to regulate its own 
postal system, great confusion and delay would 
arise in the transmission of the mail; and the 
result would be great injury to private business 
and public interests. 

Clause 8. Congress shall have power; 

44 To promote the progress of science and useful arts, by securing, 
for limited times, to authors and inventors, the exclusive right to their 
respective writings and discoveries.' 1 '' 

An author can secure the exclusive right to pub- 
lish his writings for 28 years, and afterward renew 
the same for 14 years more, by the copyright laws. 
The cost of a copyright is about six dollars. 

An inventor can secure the exclusive right to 
manufacture and sell his invention for 14 years, 
by the patent right laws. A patent-right costs 
from fifty to seventy dollars. 



30 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

Clause 9. Congress shall have power; 
" To constitute tribunals inferior to the Supreme Court. " 
N. B. Refer to Judicial Department. 

Clause 10. Congress shall have power; 

"To define and punish piracies and felonies committed on the high 
seas, and offenses against the laws of nations.'" 

Piracy is robbery on the sea. Felony is mur- 
der, arson, burglary, etc. Piracy and felony are 
punishable by death. Congress is given the power 
to punish offenses against the laws of nations, 
because foreign nations hold our Government res- 
ponsible for offenses committed by our citizens 
against their laws. 

Clause 11. Congress shall have power; 

"To declare war, grant letters of marque and reprisal, and make 
rules concerning captures on land and water." 

A letter of marque and reprisal is a permit given 
to private persons! to capture the property of citi- 
zens at war with another country. Persons com- 
missioned to do this are called Privateers. These 
commissions are usually issued in war-time. 

Clause 12. Congress shall have power; 

"To raise and support armies; but no appropriation of mrney to 
that use shall be for a longer term than two years." 

This clause gives Congress the power to raise 
and support armies when they are needed. The 
appropriation is limited to two years, to prevent 
Congress from creating a standing army in time 
of peace, without the consent of the people. 

Clause 13. Congress shall have power; 
"To provide and maintain a navy. " 
See Clause 11. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 31 

Clause 14. Congress shall have power; 

"To make rules for the government and regulation of the land 
and naval forces." 

Clause 15. Congress shall have power; 

4 * To provide for calling forth the militia to execute the laws of 
the Union, suppress insurrections, and repel invasions." 

Clause 16. Congress shall have power; 

" To provide for organizing, arming, and disciplining the militia, 
and for governing such parts of them as may be employed in the ser- 
vice of the United States, reserving to the States respectively, the 
appointment of the officers, and the authority of training the militia, 
according to the discipline prescribed by Congress." 

The militia consists of all able-bodied males of 
the United States, between the ages of eighteen 
and forty-five years, who are citizens of the United 
States or who have declared their intention to 
become citizens. 

That part of the militia permanently organized into regi- 
ments in the different States, is called the National Guard. 
It belongs to the State, and its commander-in-chief is^ the 
Governor of that State; but it may be mustered into the service 
of the Union for the same purposes as the unorganized militia, 
in case of insurrection or invasion. 

When' such emergency arises, the President of the United 
States issues a call to the governors of the States; and they 
must then furnish the troops required. 

Clause 16 explains what powers Congress and the State 
Governments have respecting the militia. In order to secure 
uniformity of action in case of actual service of the militia, 
Congress is given the power to prescribe the rules of discipline. 

Clause 17. Congress shall have power; 

"To exercise exclusive legislation in all cases whatsoever, over 
such district {not exceeding ten miles square), as may, by session of 
particular States, and the acceptance of Congress, become the seat of 
the Government of the United States, and to exercise like authority 
over all places purchased by the consent of the legislature of the State 
in which the same shall be, for the erection of forts, magazines, arse- 
nals, dockyards, and other needful buildings." 



32 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

This clause gives Congress the exclusive juris- 
diction over the District of Columbia, and also 
over all places purchased by consent of the State 
Legislature in any State, for the erection of forts, 
magazines, arsenals, dockyards, and other need- 
ful buildings. 

Clause 18. Congress shall have power; 

"To make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carry- 
ing into execution the foregoing powers, and all the powers vested by 
the Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any 
department or officer thereof" 

This clause gives Congress the power to enact 
all the laws necessary for carrying into execution 
all the powers vested by the Constitution in the 
National Government. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

Powers Denied to the United States. 

Article I. — Section 9. 

Clause 1. "The migration or importation of such persons, as any 
of the States now existing, shall think proper to admit, shall not be 
prohibited by the Congress, prior to the year one thousand eight hun- 
dred and eight; but a tax or duty may be imposed on such importa- 
tion, not exceeding ten dollars for each person." 

*80. What prohibition, regarding- the importation of slaves, was put 
on Congress? 

Congress was denied the power to prohibit the 
importation of slaves before the year 1808. 

The law, prohibiting the importation of slaves, took effect 
January 1, 1808; but it did not wholly stop the traffic. In 1820 
Congress declared the importation of slaves to be piracy, punish- 
able by death. This was effective. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 33 

Clause 2. "The privilege of the writ of habeas corpus shall not 
be suspended unless when, in cases of rebellion or invasion, the public 
safety may require it. , 

The object of this clause is to prevent illegal 

imprisonment. 

81. May Congress suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus? 

Congress may not suspend the privilege of the 

writ of habeas corpus, unless the public safety 

requires it in cases of rebellion or invasion. 

The writ of habeas corpus gives a person who believes him- 
self innocently imprisoned, or confined, the right to ask to be 
brought into open court that the cause of his imprisonment be 
examined into; and he be given his freedom, if unjustly 
imprisoned. 
Clause 3. "No bill of attainder, or ex post facto law, shall be 
passed." 

*82. May Congress pass a bill of attainder, or an ex post facto law? 
Congress may not pass a bill of attainder, or an 
ex post facto law. 

A bill of attainder is a bill passed by a legislature, convict- 
ing and punishing a person for a crime, without giving him a 
regular trial. 

An ex post facto law is a law made after a deed is done 

against which no law exists. It declares the deed to have been 

a crime, and assumes the power to punish the person whoccm- 

mitted it. 

Clause 4. ' ' No capitation or other direct tax shall be laid, unless 

in proportion to the census of enumeration, herein before directed to 

be taken." 

*83. What restriction is there upon Congress regarding capitation 
or other direct tax? 

Congress may not levy a capitation or other 
direct tax upon a certain portion or portions of 
the country. 

A capitation or poll tax is a direct tax levied upon a person; 
other direct taxes are levied upon property — be it movable or 
immovable. 



34 O UR NA TIONAL G O VERNMENT. 

Clause 5. ik No tax or duty shall be laid on articles exported 
from any State. No preference shall be given by any regulation cf 
commerce or revenue, to the ports of one State over those of another; 
nor shall vessels bound to, or from, o?ie State, be obliged to enter 
clear, or pay duties, in another." 

*84. What restriction is there to tax or duty on exports? 

Congress may not lay a tax or duty on articles 
exported from any State, because such a tax 
would be injurious to the interests of that State. 

*85. May Congress give preference to the ports of one State over 
those of another? 

Congress may not give preference by any regu- 
lation of commerce or revenue, to the ports of one 
State over those of another. 

*86. May Congress oblige a vessel, sailing from any State-port, to 
enter, clear, or pay duties in another port? 

Congress may not oblig-e any vessel, sailing- from 
any State-port, to enter, clear, or pay duties, in 
another port. 

Clause 6. "No money shall be drawn from the treasury, but in 
consequence of appropriations made by law, and a regular statement 
and account of all the receipts and expe?iditures of all public money 
shall be published, from time to time. " 

87. State briefly the only way money may be drawn from the 
Treasury of the United States? 

No money may be drawn from the Treasury of 
the United States without the consent of Congress. 
Congress must make an appropriation for each 
case. It must pass an act providing- that a speci- 
fied sum of money in the Treasury is to be paid 
for a specified purpose. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 35 

This provision gives the control of the public money to the 
representatives of the people. To prevent Congress from being 
wasteful and extravagent with the people's money, a full 
statement and account of all receipts and expenditures must 
be published from time to time. 

Clause 7. "No title of nobility shall be granted by the United 
States: And no person, holding any office of profit or trust under 
them, shall, without the consent of Congress, accept of any present, 
emolument, office, or title, of any kind whatever, from any king, prince, 
or foreign state." 

*88. May Congress confer a title of nobility? 

Congress may not confer a title of nobility on 
any person, because the Constitution guarantees 
equal rights to all. 

No officer of the United States is permitted to accept any 
present, emolument, office, or title, from any foreign power, 
without the consent of Congress. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

Powers Denied to the States. 

Article I. — Section 10. 

Clause 1. "No State shall enter into any treaty, alliance, or 
confederation; grant letters of marque and reprisal; coin money; 
emit bills of credit; make anything but gold and silver coin a tender 
in payment of debts, pass any bill of attainder, ex post facto law, or 
law impairing the obligation of contracts, or grant any title of 
nobility. ' ' 

*89. May a State enter into any treaty, alliance, or confederation, 
with foreign nations? 

No state may enter into any treaty, alliance, or 
confederation, with foreign nations. This privilege 
belongs only to the National Government. 



36 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

*90. May a State grant letters of marque and reprisal? 

No State may grant letters of marque and 
reprisal, because this privilege might plunge our 
Government into a war with foreign countries. 

91. May a State coin money, emit bills of credit, or make anything 
but gold and silver a legal tender? 

A State may not coin money, emit bills of credit, 
or make anything but gold and silver a legal 
tender in payment of a debt. 

If the States were permitted to coin money, and issue bills 
of credit ( paper money), the result would be hopeless confusion 
and great annoyance. We now have a simple, uniform, and 
safe money system. 

A legal tender is anything which, when offered in payment 
of a debt, the creditor must accept, or lose his claim to interest. 

*92. Is a State permitted to pass a bill of attainder, an ex post facto 
law, or confer a title of nobility? 

A State is not permitted to pass a bill of attain- 
der, an ex post facto law, or confer a title of nobility, 
for the same reasons for which Congress is denied 
these powers. 

*93. May a State make a law impairing the binding force of an 
agreement, or contract, which has been legally made? 

A State may not make a law that impairs the 
binding force of an agreement, or a contract, that 
has been legally made. 

A State may pass laws regulating the operation of contracts 
to be made in the future. 

Clause 2. "No State shall, withoutthe consent of the Congress, 
lay any imposts or duties on imports or exports, except what may be 
absolutely necessary for executing its inspection laws; and the net pro- 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 37 

duce of all duties and imposts, laid by any State on imports or exports, 
shall be for the use of the treasury of the United States; and all such 
laws shall be subject to the revision and control of the Congress " 

*94. May a State lay imposts or duties on imports or exports? 

A State may not lay imposts or duties on im- 
ports or exports, without the consent of Congress, 
because Congress has the sole power to regulate 
commerce. A State may, however, lay such du- 
ties upon articles as are absolutely necessary to 
carry out its inspection laws, 

95. What are inspection laws? 

Inspection laws are laws made for the purpose 
of examining different food products, in order to 
ascertain their quality and fitness for public use. 

These laws are made to urge the producers to improve the 
quality of food articles, and for the protection of the buyer. 

*96. May a State make any inspection laws it pleases? 

A State may not make any inspection laws it 
pleases. All such laws passed are subject to the 
revision and control of Congress. 

*97. What must be done with the net proceeds arising under the in- 
spection laws? 

The net proceeds, arising under the inspection 
laws, must be paid into the Treasury of the 
United States. 

Clause 3. "No State shall, without the consent of Congress, lay 
any duty of tonnage, keep troops, or ships of war in time of peace, 
enter into any agreement or compact with another State, or with a 
foreign power, or engage in war, unless actually invaded, or in such 
imminent danger as will not admit of delay. " 



38 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

*98. Is a State permitted to keep troops or ships of war in time of 
peace? 

A State is not permitted, without the consent of 
Congress, to keep troops or ships of war in time 
of peace, because this privilege would endanger 
the public safety. 

*99. May a State enter into an agreement or compact with another 
State, or with a foreign power? 

A State may not enter into any agreement or 
compact with another State, or with a foreign 
power, because such action would endanger the 
safety of the Union. 

*100. May a State engage in war? 

A State may not engage in war unless actually 
invaded, or in such imminent danger as will not 
admit of delay. 



PART III. 



THE EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT. 



CHAPTER XV. 

President and Vice-President. 

Article II. — Section 1. 

Clause 1. u The Executive power shall be vested in a President 
of the United States of America, He shall hold his office during the 
term of four years, and together with the Vice-President, chosen /or 
the same term, be elected as follows:" 

101. In whom is the Executive power of the United States vested? 

The Executive power of the United States is 
vested in one person, called the President. He 
is personally responsible for the proper enforce- 
ment of this power. 

The President, however, cannot attend to all the detail work 
of this department; therefore, the work is divided among* nine 
subordinate departments. They are the Department of State, 
of the Treasury, of War, of Justice, the Post Office Depart- 
ment, the Department of the Navy, of the Interior, of Agricul- 
ture, and of Commerce and Labor. At the head of each depart- 
ment there is an official, who is appointed by the President, 
and is responsible to him for his department. These officials, 
form the President's Cabinet, and act as his advisers upon 
government matters. The salary of a cabinet officer is $8,000 
a year. 



40 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

BRIEF SKETCH OF THE DEPARTMENTS. 

Department of State. 

This department is the most important. Through it, 
all our business with foreign countries is transacted. The 
chief officer is the Secretary of State, who is assisted by- 
assistant secretaries, ministers, consuls, etc. This Sec- 
retary is the custodian of the great seal of the United 
States; and, by order of the President, he affixes it to all 
official papers. He also has charge of the government 
archives, where the original copies of laws, treaties, etc., 
are kept. There are five bureaus in the department: Di- 
plomatic, Consular, the Bureaus of Indexes and Archives, 
of Accounts, and of Rolls and Library. 

Department of the Treasury. 

This department ranks second in importance. The 
Secretary of the Treasury is at its head. He is assisted 
by subordinate secretaries, clerks, and thousands of em- 
ployees. The work is subdivided among many bureaus 

Six Bureaus of Auditors examine and settle all 
accounts. 

The Comptroller of the Treasury revises the accounts 
of the auditors, prescribes the forms of keeping the pub- 
lic accounts, and directs the recovery of debts due to the 
United States. He is also in charge of the National Bank 
System, which is considered the most perfect system of 
finance in the world. 

The Treasurer of the United States has charge of the 
nation's money and pays it out when directed to do so by 
Congress. The money is deposited in the United States 
Treasury at Washington, D. C, and in the Sub-treasu- 
ries at Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Cincin- 
nati, Chicago, St. Louis, New Orleans, and San Francisco. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 41 

About 200 National Banks have been designated as public 
depositories. 

The Commissioner of Customs attends to the collec- 
tion of the duties on all imports. 

The Commissioner of Internal Revenue attends to the 
collection of the revenue on domestic manufactures and on 
certain kinds of business. 

The Register of the Treasury issues and signs all the 
bonds of the United States, and directs the transfer of 
money from the Treasury to the Sub-treasuries and to the 
National Banks. 

The Comptroller of the Currency attends to the mak- 
ing of the paper money. The paper on which the bills are 
printed, is made by a secret process. While the bills are 
printed, they are counted and recounted many times, to 
make sure that none have been lost or stolen. 

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing employs about 
1600 people. An enormous amount of work is annually 
performed by this bureau. Here are done the engraving 
of the plates and the printing of United States notes, bonds, 
revenue stamps, postage stamps, and postal cards, 

The Director of the Mint attends to the making of all 
coin money. Every coin struck, is watched with the great- 
est care. The principal mint is located at Philadelphia. 
There are branch mints at New Orleans, San Francisco, 
Carson City, and Denver. 

The Solicitor of the Treasury attends to all the legal 
business of the department. When the Government pro- 
secutes any person for counterfeiting its securities, trans- 
gressing its revenue laws, or for any crime against its 
financial interests, he conducts the suit. 

The Supervising Surgeon General is in charge of the 
twenty-two marine hospitals in which our sick sailors are 
cared for. He also directs the laboratories for the inves- 



42 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

tigation of the causes of contagious diseases, and superin- 
tends the quarantine service of the United States. 

The Supervising* Architect drafts the plans for the 
government building's, and oversees their construction. 

The Life Saving- Service, under a General Superin- 
tendent, is one of the most worthy and important branches 
of this department. It was established in 1848 for the 
purpose of assisting* vessels and sailors in peril. There 
are about 275 stations along- the danger points on the 
coasts of the Great Lakes and the Atlantic and Pacific 
Oceans. These stations are equipped with life-boats and 
other apparatus needed for rescue-work. Over 2000 men 
find employment in this branch. 

The Department of War. 

This department is in charg-e of the military affairs of 
the g-overnment. At its head is the Secretary of War, who 
represents the President in his capacity as commander-in- 
chief of the army. 

This Secretary has many duties to perform. He 
makes all estimates of appropriations for the expenses of 
this department, for the buying* of the supplies for the 
army, and for its transportation. He oversees all river 
and harbor improvements, and the removal of obstructions 
to navigation. The Military Academy at West Point, 
N. Y., and the National cemeteries are also under his care. 

The work of the department is subdivided among* dif- 
ferent bureaus, headed by army officers. 

The Adjutant General attends to the enlisting- and 
discharging- of the soldiers. He issues the orders for the 
muster of the troops and their movement. He does the 
corresponding for the department, and also keeps the 
records. 

The Quartermaster General provides for the trans- 
portation, equipping, and clothing of the troops. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 43 

The Commissary General issues the orders for the 
food supplies. 

The Surgeon General looks after the medical wants of 
the soldiers. 

The Chief of Ordnance supplies the arms. Most of 
the arms for the army are manufactured in the United 
States arsenals. The arsenals at Springfield, Mass., and 
Rock Island, 111., furnish rifles and carbines; the arsenal at 
West Troy, N. Y., cannon and mortars. 

The Inspector General examines the places where our 
troops are stationed, all public works executed by army 
officers, and also the Military Academy and the government 
prisons; and makes out reports on the results of the in- 
vestigations. 

The Chief of Engineers is in charge of the Corps of 
Engineers whose duties are to locate and erect fortifica- 
tions, military bridges, etc., and to execute the govern- 
ment work for the improvement of harbors and navigable 
streams. 

The Paymaster General settles all the bills of the 
department. 

The Judge Advocate General has charge of all legal 
matters pertaining to this department. He also reviews 
and records the proceedings of all courts-martial and 
courts of inquiry. 

The Signal Service, under the supervision of the Chief 
Signal Officer, originates all signals for the military ser- 
vice, when information must be conveyed beyond the reach 
of the human voice. In the day time flags are used to 
make the signals; at night, torches, rockets, flash-lights, 
and other devices are used in their stead. 

The Military Academy, at West Point, N. Y., founded 
in 1802, is in charge of this department. Here young men 
are trained as army officers, at the expense of the govern- 



44 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

ment. To become a cadet at the Academy, one must be 
between seventeen and twenty-two years old, be properly 
recommended, appointed by the President, pass the 
required examination in the English branches, and be 
sound in body and mind. The course of study covers four 
years, and the discipline is severe. Each cadet receives 
$540 a year while studying. 

The Department of the Navy. 

This department is in charge of the naval affairs of 
the government. The Secretary of the Navy is at its head. 
His duties are to look after the building, manning, arming, 
equipping, and employment of all war vessels of the Union. 
The work is divided among bureaus, the chiefs of which 
are officers of the United States Navy. 

The bureaus are: the Bureau of Navigation, of Docks 
and Yards, of Ordnance, of Construction and Repairs, of 
Navigation, of Steam-engineering, of Provisions and 
Clothing, of Medicine and Surgery, and of Equipment 
and Recruiting. 

This department also has control of the Naval Obser- 
vatory at Washington, D. C, the Nautical Almanac, the 
Hydrographic Office, etc. 

The Naval Academy, at Annapolis, Md., founded in 
1846, belongs to this department. It is a school for the 
training of sailors for our war-ships. To be admitted a 
boy must be between fifteen and twenty years of age. He 
must be properly recommended, pass the required exam- 
ination, be sound in body and mind, and be appointed by 
the President. The course of study covers six years. 
Each cadet receives $500 a year. 

The Department of Justice. 

The Attorney General is at the head of this department 
He is the chief lawyer of the Government, and is the legal 
adviser of the President and his Cabinet. He personally 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 45 

represents the United States in all cases it may have in 
the Supreme Court of the United States and in the Court 
of Claims. 

The United States district attorneys and marshals, 
scattered throughout the Union, are under his supervision. 

The Post-Office Department. 

This department is in charge of the Postmaster Gen- 
eral. He has the supervision of the entire mail-service of 
the United States, at home and abroad. He establishes 
post-offices, makes postal treaties, awards the contracts 
for carrying the mail, determines the styles of stamps, 
postal-cards, etc. He also appoints the postmasters whose 
salary is less than $1,000 a year, the President appointing 
the others. 

There are four bureaus in this department. Each is 
in charge of an Assistant Postmaster General. The first 
Assistant directs the management of the post-offices with 
their clerks and carriers. The second Assistant attends 
to the transportation of the mail. The third Assistant 
supplies the stamps and postal-cards, and has charge of 
the finances. The fourth Assistant looks after the ap- 
pointment of almost 73,000 postmasters, and also directs 
the inspectors. 

The Department of the Interior, 

This department is under the supervision of the Sec- 
retary of the Interior. The department embraces the 
Bureau of Public Lands, Bureau of Railroads, the Patent 
Office, the Pension Office, the Bureau of Education, the 
Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Geological Survey, and the 
Bureau of Public Documents. 



46 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

The Department of Agriculture. 

It is the duty of this department to secure and diffuse 
among* the people all useful knowledge on subjects per- 
taining- to agriculture; and also to procure, propagate, and 
distribute among- them "new and valuable M seeds and 
plants. The chief of the department is the Secretary of 
Agriculture. The work is divided among- bureaus and 
divisions. 

The Bureau of Animal Industry inspects the meat 
products that are exported to European countries. An 
inspection is also provided for animals on the hoof intended 
for exportation, and for animals imported. Much care is 
also given to the study of the diseases of animals. 

The Division of Vegetable Physiology is engaged in 
the study of diseases affecting trees; and that of Ento- 
mology, in the study of injurious insects. 

The Division of Biological Survey studies the geo- 
logical distribution of animals and plants, and the food 
habits of birds. 

The Division of Seeds expends over $100,000 every 
year in the purchase of rare and valuable seeds, bulbs, and 
plants. These are distributed throughout the country, 
free of charge. 

The Office of Public Road Inquiries is engaged in the 
study of the best systems of road-making and the best 
materials to be used for that purpose. 

The Divisions of Botany, and of Gardens and Grounds 
also belong to this department. 

The Weather Bureau, or Meteorological Bureau, forms 
a part of this department. The observation stations, 
belonging to this bureau, are scattered throughout the 
country. At each station careful observations of the 
weather are made and reported, by telegraph, to the cen- 
tral office at Washington. From these reports the weather- 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 47 

forecasts, printed in the daily papers, displayed in the 
store-windows, etc., are made. The people are thus 
warned of the approach of destructive storms, frosts, and 
floods. 

In 1901 Congress changed the Divisions of Forestry, of 
Chemistry, and of Soils into bureaus, and also formed a 
Bureau of Plant Industry. 

The Department of Commerce and Labor. 

This is a new department and will soon be one of the 
most important. At its head is a Secretary. Only two 
new bureaus have been created for this department, the 
others were transferred from other departments. The 
new bureaus are the Bureau of Corporations and the 
Bureau of Manufactures. 

The Commissioner of Corporations is expected to study 
the organization and business methods of corporations and 
other companies engaged in interstate commerce, and tosee 
that the anti-trust laws, made by Congress, are enforced. 

The Commissioner of Manufactures has many duties 
which are defined by the law thus: "To foster, promote 
and develop the various manufacturing industries of the 
United States and markets for the same at home and abroad 
by gathering, compiling, publishing, arid supplying all 
available and useful information concerning such industries 
and such markets, and by such other methods and means as 
may be prescribed by the Secretary or provided by lazv." 

The bureaus that have been tranf erred to this depart- 
ment are: The Bureau of Statistics; Census and Immi- 
gration Bureaus; Bureau of Foreign Commerce of the 
State Department; the Bureau of Standards of Weights 
and Measures; Bureau of Navigation and the Shipping 
Commissioners; Fish Commission; Coast and Geodetic 
Survey; and the Lighthouse Board. 



48 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

102. For how long: is the President elected? 

The President, along- with the Vice-President, 
is elected for a term of four years. 

The Constitution does not limit the number of terms a person 
may serve as President; however, custom has established the 
rule that he serve no more than two terms. 

Clause 2. "Each State shall appoint \ in such manner as the Leg- 
islature thereof may direct, a number of Electors, equal to the whole 
number of Senators and Representatives to which the State may be 
entitled in the Congress; but no Senator or Representative, or person 
holding any office of trust or profit under the United States, shall be 
appointed an Elector." 

103. By whom are the President and Vice-President elected? 

The President and the Vice-President are 
elected by Electors from each State. 

Members of Congress, and persons holding" any office of trust 
or profit underthe United States, can not be appointed Electors. 

*104. Who are Electors? 

Electors are men selected in each State by each 
political party, to choose the President and Vice- 
President for them. 

The names cf the Electors are printed under each party's 
name on the official ballot for the so-called "Presidential Elec- 
tion.' ' When the voter casts this ballot, he votes for the 
Electors of his party, not for the President. 

105. To how many Electors is a State entitled? 

A State is entitled to as many Electors as it has 
Senators and Representatives in Congress. 
The whole body of Electors is called the Electoral College. 

*106. What day is fixed by Cougress for the election of these 
Electors? 

The day, fixed by Congress for the election of 
the Presidential Electors, is the first Tuesday 
after the first Monday in November of every 
fourth year. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 49 

The political party having the majority of the votes cast, is 
entitled to the Electoral Vote of that State. 

N. B. Clause 3. has been repealed, Article XII. of the 
Amendments taking its place. 

Amendment, Article XII. 

Clause 1. "The Electors shall meet in their respective States, 
and vote by ballot for President and Vice-President, one of whom, at 
least, shall not be an inhabitant of the same State with themselves; 
they shall name in their ballots the person voted for as President, 
and in distinct ballots the person voted for as Vice-President; and 
they shall make distinct lists of all persons voted for as Presi- 
dent, and of all persons voted for as Vice-President, and of the 
number of votes for each, which lists they shall sign and certify, and 
transmit sealed to the seat of the government of the United States, 
directed to the President of the Senate. The President of the Senate 
shall, in the presence of the Senate and House of Representatives* open 
all the certificates, and the votes shall then be counted. The person hav- 
ing the greater number of votes for President shall be the President, 
if such number be a majority of the whole number of Electors ap- 
pointed; aud if no person have such majority, then, from the persons 
having the highest numbers, not exceeding three, on the list of those 
voted for as President, the House of Representatives shall choose im- 
mediately, by ballot, the President. But in choosing the Preside?it* 
the votes shall be taken by States, the representation jrom each State 
having one vote; a quorum for this purpose shall consist of a member 
or members from two-thirds of the States, and a majority of all the 
States shall be necessary to a choice. And if the House of Represen~ 
tatives shall not choose a President, whenever the right to choose shall 
devolve upon them, before the fourth day of March next following, 
then the Vice-President shall act as President, as in case of the death, 
or other constitutional disability of the President." 

Clause 2. "The person having the greatest number of votes as 
Vice-President shall be the Vice-President, if such number be a ma- 
jority of the whole number of Electors appointed; and if no person 
have a majority, then, from the two highest numbers* on the list, the 
Senate shall choose the Vice-President; a quorum for the purpose shall 
consist of two-thirds of the whole number of Senators; a majority of 
the whole number shad be necessary to a choice." 



50 OUR NATIONAL GOVENRMENT. 

Clause 3. ■ 'But no person constitutionally ineligible t ) the office 
of President, shall be eligible to that of Vice-President of the United 
States." 

107. How many methods of electing" the President are there? 

There are two methods provided for the elec- 
tion of the President; 1st, by Electors chosen for 
this purpose; 2d, if this method fail, by the House 
of Representatives. 

The Electors meet in their respective States on the second 
Monday in January, usually at the State Capital. They cast 
a ballot for President and another for Vice-President. The 
ballots are counted, and three separate lists are made of all 
the candidates voted for as President and Vice-President, wtfh 
the number of votes each received. These lists are signed, cert - 
fied, and sealed by the Electors. Two of the lists are for- 
warded to the President of the Senate, one by mail, the other 
by a special messenger. The third list is deposited with the 
United States District Court Judge of the district. It is sent 
for if the other lists fail to reach their destination by the fourth 
Monday in January. 

The Electoral Vote is counted on the second Wednesday of 
February at a joint meeting of both Houses of Congress. The 
President of the Senate opens all the certificates, and the votes 
are counted by tellers. The candidate having the majority of 
all votes for President, is declared elected President; the one 
having a majority of all the votes for Vice-President, is declared 
elected Vice-President. 

If no candidate have a majority of the votes for President, 
the House of Representatives chooses the President, by ballot 
from the three candidates having the highest vote. At least 
two-thirds of all the Representatives must be present; each 
State has one vote, and a majority of the States is necessary 
for a choice. 

If the Representatives fail to choose a President by the fol- 
lowing fourth of Match, the person elected Vice-President, 
becomes President. 

Vice-President. If none of the candidates for Vice-President 
receives a majority of the Electoral Vote, the Senate chooses 
him from the two candidates highest on the list. Two-thirds 
of all Senators must be present, and each one has a vote. A 
majority of all Senators is necessary for a choice. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 51 

Clause 4. " The Congress may determine the time of choosing the 
Electors, and the day on which they shall give their votes; which day 
shall be the same throughout the United States." 

Refer to questions 106 and 107. 

Clause 5. * l No person, except a natural-born citizen, or a citizen 
of the United States at the time of the adoption of this Constitution, 
shall be eligible to the office of President; neither shall any person be 
eligible to that office who shall not have attained to the age of thirty - 
five years, and been fourteen years a resident within the United 
States." 

108. What are the qualifications for President, and Vice-Presidenf 

To become President, or Vice-President, a pet 
son must be a native-born citizen of the United 
States; be 35 years old; and must have lived four- 
teen years within the United States. 

The offices of President and Vice-President are the only 
offices of the United States which a foreign-born citizen cannot 
hold. 

Clause 6. "In case of the removal of the President from office, 
or of his death, resignation, or inability to discharge the powers and 
duties of the said office, the same shall devolve on the Vice-President, 
and the Congress may by law provide for the case of removal, death, 
resignation, or inability, both of the President and Vice-President, 
declaring what officer shall then act as President, and such officer 
shall act accordingly, until the disability be removed, or a President 
shall be elected." 

109. If a vacancy occurs in the Presidency, how is it filled? 

If a vacancy occurs in the Presidency, the Vice- 
President becomes President for the unexpired 
term. 

If the President is sick, on a vacation, etc., the Vice-Presi- 
dent acts as President until he returns. 

There is no provision made in the Constitution for filling- a 
vacancy in the Vice-Presid,ncy. 



52 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

110. If there is neither President nor Vice-President, how is the 
Presidency filled? 

If there is neither President nor Vice-President, 
the Presidency devolves upon the members of the 
President's Cabinet in the following order: the 
Secretary of State, of the Treasury, and of War, 
the Attorney General, the Postmaster-General, the 
Secretary of the Navy, of the Interior, and of Ag- 
riculture. 

It is understood that the one who succeeds to the Presidency, 
have the qualifications for the position. , 

Clause 7. "The President shall, at stated times, receive for his 
services a compensation, which shall neither be increased nor dimin- 
ished during the period for which he shall have been elected, and he 
shall not receive within that period any other emolument from the 
United States, or any of them, " 

111. What is the salary of the President? 

The salary of the President is $50,000 a year 
along with the use of the White House. 

The use of the White House includes free rent, light, fuel, 
furnishing", keeping the grounds in order, caring for the 
stables, etc. 

The White House (Executive Mansion) is about a mile from 
the Capitol Building. It is the President's residence, and also 
contains his business offices, where he performs the many duties 
of his position. Here he also receives the people who come to 
see him on business, or for any other purpose. 

*112. What is the salary of the Vice-President? 

The salary of the Vice-President is $8,000 a 
year. 

Clause 8. "Before he enter on the execution of his office, he 
shall take the following oath or affirmation: k I do solemnly swear 
{or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the 
United States, and will, to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and 
defend the Constitution of the United Stales.'' " 



O UR NA TIONAL G O VERNMENT. 53 

113. When are the President and Vice-President inaugurated ? 

The President and Vice-President are inaug- 
urated on the 4th of March, following* their 
election. 

The Vice-President takes the oath to support the Constitu- 
tion in the Senate Chamber just before noon, and then delivers 
a short address to the Senators. Then the Senators and all 
officials present march in a body to the temporary platform 
erected on the east side of the Capitol. An immense crowd is 
gathered here to witness the inauguration of the President 
The President-to-be, is escorted to the platform, and the Chief 
Justice of the United States Supreme Court administers to him 
the oath of office. The President then delivers his inaugural 
address. Hz is then escorted to his new home, the White 
House. 

CHAPTER XVI. 

Powers of the President, 

Article II. — Section 2. 

Clause 1. "The President shall be Commander-in-Chief of 
the Army and Navy of the United States, and of the Militia of the 
several States, when called into the actual service of the United States; 
he may require the opinion, in writing, of the principal officer in each 
of the executive departments, upon any subject relating to the duties 
of their respective offices, and he shall have power to grant reprieves 
and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of 
impeachment. 

114. Who is the Commander-in-Chief of the Army and Navy of the 
United States? 

The President is the Commander-in-Chief oi 
the Army and Navy of the United States, and 
also of the State Militia when it is in actual service 
of the United States. 
It is the President's duty to execute the laws, to repel inva- 
sion, and to suppress domestic insurrection; he must, therefore, 
. have sufficient power to accomplish these duties. It is neces- 
sary that the control of the entire military force be traced into 
his hands. 



54 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

In case of war the President need not take the field in per. 
son. He may select officers to act for him and under his super- 
vision. The Secretary of War and the Secretary of the Navy 
are usually empowered by the President to exercise this au- 
thority for him. 



*115. How may the President obtain information on executive 
matters? 

The President may require the head-officer of 
every executive department to give his opinion in 
writing-, on any subject relating- to the duties of his 
department. 

*116. What power has the President to interfere with the course of 
the laws? 

The President has the power to grant reprieves 
and pardons for all offenses against the United 
States, except in cases of impeachment. 

A reprieve is a temporary suspension of the execution of a 
sentence. A pardon is a complete or a partial release from a 
punishment. The President also has the power of commuting 
a sentence; that is, he may change the death penalty into im- 
prisonment for life, etc. 

The President can only grant a reprieve or pardon when a 
person is convicted by a United States Court. 

Clause 2. "He (the President) shall have power, by and with 
the advice and consent of the Senate, to make treaties, provided two- 
thirds of the Senators present concur; and he shall nominate, and by 
and with the advice and consent oj the Senate, shall appoint ambassa- 
dors, other public ministers, and consuls, judges of the Supreme Court, 
and all other officers of the United States, whose appointments are not 
herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established by law; 
but the Congress may by law vest the appointment of such inferior 
officers, as they think proper, in the President alone, in the courts oj 
(aw, or in the heads of Departments.'''' 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 55 

*117. What power has the President in making treaties? 

The President has power to make treaties by 
and with the advice and consent of the Senate. 
Two-thirds of the Senators present must concur, 

A treaty is an agreement ( contract ) between two or more 
nations. It may cover any subject. 

*118. What nominating and appointing powers has the President? 
The President nominates, and, by and with the 
consent of the Senate, appoints ambassadors, 
other public ministers, consuls, judges of the Su- 
preme Court, and all the officers of the United 
States whose appointments are not provided for 
in the Constitution, and which shall be established 
by law. 

Ambassadors and other public ministers are the political 
agents of our Government in foreign countries. They usually 
reside in the capital of the country to which they are sent. It 
is their duty to carry out the instructions of the President; to 
protect the person and property of our citizens in their respective 
countries; to settle the differences that arise between our Gov- 
ernment and the one to which they are accredited; to keep our 
Government informed on all points that concern our interests; 
etc. 

The consularepresent the commercial interests of our coun- 
try. They are stationed at all important seaports of foreign 
countries. It is their duty to watch that our merchants and 
seamen are properly protected. 

Clause 3. "The President shall have power to fill up all vacan- 
cies that may happen during the recess of the Senate, by granting 
commissions which shall expire at the end of their next session." 

*119. What power has the President to fill vacancies? 

The President has power to fill all vacancies 
occuring- during- the recess of the Senate; but 
the commissions granted hy him expire at the 
end of the next session of the Senate. 



56 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

CHAPTER XVII. 

Duties of the President. 

Article II. 
Section 3. ik He shall, from time to time, give to the Congress 
information of the state of the Union, and recommend to their consid- 
eration such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient; he 
may, on extraordinary occasions, convene both Houses, or either of 
them, and in case of disagreement between them, with respect to the 
time of adjournment, he may adjourn them to such time as he shall 
think proper; he shall receive ambassadors and other public ministers; 
he shall take care that the laws be faithfully executed, and shall com- 
mission all the officers of the United States." 

*120. What is the President obliged to do at the beginning of every 
session of Congress? 

At the beginning- of every session of Congress, 
the President is obliged to send a message to Con- 
gress (President's message). J[n it he reviews 
the condition of the country, and recommends 
such measures as he thinks necessary and expe- 
dient to remedy existing evils, or to better con- 
ditions. 

121. What is the most important duty of the President? 

The most important duty of the President is to 
see that the laws, made by Congress, are enforced. 

In case of necessity the President may send the army and 
navy of the United States and call out the militia to overcome 
any resistance to the law. 

122. Who commissions the officers of the United States? 

The President commissions all officers of the 
United States, whether appointed by him or not. 

A commission is a certificate of appointment to an office 
under the United States. To be valid it must be signed by the 
President, and the official seal of the United States must be 
affixed by the Secretary of State. 

Section 2. * * The President, Vice-President, and all civil officers 
of the United States, shall be retnoved from office, on impeachment for, 
and conviction of, treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misde- 
meanors." 

This subject has been considered under impeachment pages, 
IS and 18. 



PART IV. 

THE JUDICIAL DEPARTMENT. 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

The United States Courts. 

Article III. 

Section 1. "The Judicial Power of the United States shall be 
vested in one Supreme Court, and in such inferior courts as the Con- 
gress may, from time to time, ordain and establish. The judges, both 
of the Supreme and inferior courts, shall hold their offices during good 
behavior, and shall, at stated times, receive for their services a com- 
pensation, which shall not be diminished during their continuance in 
office." 

123. In whom is the Judicial Power of the United States vested? 

The Judicial Power of the United States is 
vested in one Supreme Court, and in such Inferior 
Courts as Congress may from time to time 
establish. 

The Supreme Court is the highest tribunal in the land, and 
its decisions are final. 

124. Of whom is the Supreme Court composed? 

The Supreme Court is composed of one Chief 
Justice and eight Associate Judges. 

*125. How often and when does the Supreme Court meet? 

The Supreme Court meets once a year on the 
second Monday in October, and remains in session 
until about May. It meets at Washington, D. C. 

*126. Name some of the Inferior Courts established by Congress. 

Some of the Inferior Courts established by Con- 
gress are District Courts, Circuit Courts, Court 
of Claims, Appellate Courts, Military Courts, etc. 



58 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

127. By whom are the Judges of the United States Courts ap- 
pointed? 

The Judges of the United States Courts are ap- 
pointed by the President, by and with the advice 
and consent of the Senate. 

128. How long do these Judges retain their office? 

These Judges retain their office during good 
behavior. 

These Judges can only be removed through impeachment; they 
may, of course, resign. When a Judge reaches the age of 
seventy and has served ten years, he may retire on full pay for 
life. 

Salaries: Chief Justice, $13,000 per year; Associate Judges, 
$12,000; Circuit Court Judges, $7,500 ; and District Court 
Judges, $6,000. 



CHAPTER XIX. 

Jurisdiction of the United States Courts. 

Article III. 

Clause 1. "The Judicial Power shall exlend to all cases, in law 
and equity, arising under this Constitution, the laws of the United 
States, and treaties made, or which shall be made, under their author- 
ity; to all cases affecting ambassadors, othet public ministers, and 
consuls; to all cases of admiralty and maritime jurisdiction; to con- 
troversies to which the United States shall be a party; to controversies 
between two or more States, between a State and citizens of another 
State, between citizens of different States, between citize7is of the same 
State, claiming lands under grants of different States, and between a 
State, or the citizens thereof, and foreign States, citizens, or subjects." 

129. Does the jurisdiction of the United States Courts extend to all 
cases? 

The jurisdiction of the United States Court 
does not extend to all cases, but only to those spe- 
cified in the Constitution. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 59 

*130. To what cases does the jurisdiction of these Courts extend? 

The jurisdiction of the United States Courts 
extends: 

1st, To all cases arising* under the Constitution, 
the laws of the United States, and the treaties 
made under them; 

2d, To cases affecting* ambassadors, other 
public ministers, and consuls. (If these officers 
are foreigners, they are only bound by the law of 
nations, and the laws of the country they rep- 
resent.) 

3d, To cases of admiralty and maritime jur- 
isdiction; (These cases arise out of deeds com- 
mitted on the seas, and out of rights claimed 
under the laws of commerce.) 

4th, To controversies to which the United States 
shall be a party; 

5th, To all cases that the Supreme Court of any 
State cannot decide; 

6th, To cases affecting different States and their 
citizens. 

Clause 2. "In all cases affecting ambassadors, other public min- 
isters, and consuls, and those in which a State shall be a party, the 
Supreme Court shall have original jurisdiction. In all the other cases 
before mentioned, the Supreme Court shall have appellate jurisdiction, 
both as to law and fact, with such exceptions, and under such regula- 
tions, as the Congress shall make.''* 

*131. What original jurisdiction has the Supreme Court of the 
United States? 

The Supreme Court of the United States has 
original jurisdiction in all cases affecting ambassa- 
dors, other public ministers, and consuls, and 
those in which a State shall be a party. 

Original jurisdiction is the right to decide cases which have 
not been before a lower Court. 



60 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

*132. What appellate jurisdiction has the United States Supreme 
Court? 

The United States Supreme Court has appellate 
jurisdiction in cases that come to it from the In- 
ferior Courts of the United States, or from the 
Supreme Courts of the States and territories, by 
appeal or by writ of error. 

Appellate jurisdiction is the right to settle cases that are 
brought up from the lower Courts. 

Amendment XI. " The Judicial Power of the United States shall 
not be construed to extend to any suit in law or equity, commenced or 
prosecuted against one of the United States by citizens of another 
State, or by citizens or subjects of any foreign State." 

133. May a private citizen sue a State? 

A private citizen may not sue a State, because 
such a right would be damaging- to State sover- 
eignty. 

Clause 3. "The trial of all crimes, except in cases of impeach- 
ment, shall be by jury; and such trial shall be held in the State 
where the said crime shall have been committed; but when not com- 
mitted within any State, the trial shall be at such place, or places, as 
the Congress may by law have directed," 

134. How must the trial for all crimes be held? 

The trial for all crimes, except in cases of im- 
peachment, must be held by jury. 

135. Where must the trial be held? 

The trial must be held in the State in which the 
crime was committed. 

This provision gives the party accused, all advantages of a 
fair trial, and relieves him of much expense and annoyance. 

136. If the crime is not committed within any State, what then? 

If the crime is not committed within any State, 
the trial is held where Congress by law directs. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 61 

Amendment V. "No person shall be held to answer for a capi- 
tal, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indict- 
ment of a grand jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval 
forces, or in the militia, when in actual service in time of war or pub- 
lic danger; nor shall any person be subjected, for the same offense, to 
be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in 
any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of 
life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private 
property be taken for public use, without just compensation." 

A capital crime is one punishable by death. An 
infamous crime is one punishable by imprison- 
ment in a penitentiary, or by the loss of civil or 
political privileges. 

"A presentment is a statement by a grand jury 
of an offense from their own knowledge or obser- 
vation, without any bill of indictment laid before 
them at the suit of the Government." The prose- 
cuting officer must afterward frame an indictment 
on the presentment, before the party presented 
can be held to trial. 

An indictment is a formal accusation of an 
offense drawn up by a prosecuting officer and laid 
before the grand jury for its sanction, so that the 
offender may be put to trial. 

*137. What is a Grand Jury? 

A Grand Jury is a body of twelve to twenty- 
three men who are sworn to inquire and present 
all offenses committed against the authority of the 
Government within the State or district for which 
they are impaneled. 

The Grand Jury meets in secret session, acd no indictment 
can be made by it without the consent of at least twelve of 
the members. If the Grand Jury decides that the accusation 
brought against a party is true, the party is held to answer for 
the charge against him. If it decides that the accusation is 



62 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

not true, the person accused is given his freedom if he is in 
custody; but he may be again indicted by another grand jury. 
All cases arising in the army and navy, or in the militia, 
when in actual service of the United States, are an exception 
to this method of trial. All such cases must be tried according 
to and by the laws of the courts-martial. 

*138. If a person has been once tried for a crime, can he be tried a 
second time for the same offense? 

A person who has been convicted of a crime, 
may be tried a second time if he applies for a 
new trial; but a person who has been acquitted, 
cannot be tried again for the same offense. 

*139. Can a person be compelled to be a witness against himself 
in any criminal case? 

A person cannot be compelled to be a witness 
against himself in any criminal case, because he 
is placed in a critical position, and, in many in- 
stances, his mind is not capable of giving clear and 
correct evidence. 

*140. Can a person be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without 
due process of law? 

A person cannot be deprived of life, liberty, or 
property, unless in a trial begun and conducted 
according to law, at which trial a verdict must have 
been rendered against him. 

141. May private property be taken for public use? 

Private property may be taken for public use, 
but not without just compensation. 

The power of the Government to take private property for pub- 
lic use, is called the right of "eminent domain." The Govern- 
ment must have this power when the public welfare demands 
the use of private property; but it is no more than just, that the 
owner of the property be paid a fair price for the same. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 63 

Amendment VI. "In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall 
enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the 
State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which 
district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be in- 
formed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with 
the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining 
witnesses in his favor; and to have the assistance of counsel for his de- 
fense." 
1 42. What right has a person who is prosecuted for a crime? 

He has a right to a public and speedy trial be- 
fore an impartial jury, called a petit jury. 
*143. What is a Petit Jury? 

A Petit Jury is a body of twelve men selected 
from the district wherein the crime was com- 
mitted; they listen to the evidence at the trial, 
and then bring in a verdict. To render a verdict, 
their decision must be unanimous. 

*144. Of what must the accused be informed? 

He must be informed of the nature and cause of 
the accusation, and also be allowed sufficient time 
to prepare for his defense. 

*145. What other rights has the accused? 

He has the right to be confronted by the wit- 
nesses against him; to demand of the court to 
compel the attendance of witnesses in his favor; 
and to have the assistance of counsel for his de- 
fense. 

If the accused cannot employ counsel for his defense, the Gov- 
ernment must do so at its own expense. 
Amendment VII. "In suits at common law, where the value in 
controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury 
shall be preserved; a?id no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise re- 
examined in any court of the United States, than according to the rules 
of the common law.''' 

Amendment VIII. "Excessive bail shall not be required, ?ior 
excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishment inflicted." 



64 O UR NA TIONAL G O VERNMEN T. 

CHAPTER XX. 

Treason, 

Article III. — Section 3. 
Clause I. "Treason against the United States shall consist only 
in levying war against them, or in adhering to their enemies, giving 
them aid and comfort No person shall be convicted of treason, un- 
less on the testimony of two witnesses to the same overt act, or on con- 
fession in open court." 

146. In what does treason against the United States consist? 

Treason against the United States consists only 
in levying- war against them, or in adhering to 
their enemies, giving them aid and comfort. 

Treason is the greatest crime a citizen can commit, because 
this crime aims to overthrow the Government. To protect them- 
selves against this crime, all Governments inflict the severest 
punishment for this offense. 

147. What is necessary to convict a person of treason? 

To convict a person of treason, the testimony of 
two witnesses to the same overt act, or a confes- 
sion in open court, is necessary. 

Congress has the power to declare the punishment for 
treason. 

Clause 2. " The Congress shall have power to declare the punish- 
ment of treason, but no attainder of treason shall work corruption of 
blood, or forfeiture, except during the life of the person attainted." 

*148. What penalty has Congress declared for treason? 

Congress has declared the penalty for treason 
to be death by hanging; or, at the discretion of the 
court, imprisonment for not less than five years 
and a fine of not less than ten thousand dollars. 

In some countries treason works corruption of blood, so that 
the person convicted of treason cannot inherit property, nor 
transmit his property to his heirs. All his belongings are con- 
fiscated by the government. 

The Constitution of the United States, however, restrains 
Congress from extending the consequences of treason beyond 
the person guilty of the crime. (Traitor.) 



PART V. 

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS. 



CHAPTER XXI. 

Relations of the States. 

Article IV.— Section 1. — State Records. 

Section 1. " Full faith and credit shall be given in each State to 
the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of every other State. 
And the Congress may, by general laws, prescribe the manner in which 
such acts, records, and proceedings shall be proved, and the effect 
thereof" 

*149. How shall the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings 
of one State be regarded in the other States? 

Full faith and credit shall be given in each State 
to the public acts, records and judicial proceed- 
ing's of every other State. 

*150. What power has Congress over the acts, records, and pro- 
ceedings of each State? 

Congress has power to prescribe how these acts, 
records, and judicial proceedings are to be proven, 
and what their effect shall be. 

Section II.— Privileges of Citizens, Etc. 

Clause 1. M The citizens of each State shall be entitled to all 
privileges and immunities of citizens in the several States ." 

*151. What is said of the privileges of citizens? 

A citizen of one State is entitled to all the privi- 
leges and immunities in every other State, during 
his sojourn in the same. 

Clause 2. "A person charged in any State with treason* felony » f 
or other crime* who shall flee Jrom justice, and be found in another 
State* shall* on demand of the executive authority of the State from 
which he fled* be delivered up* to be removed to the State having juris* 
diction of th* crime." 



66 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

*152. What provision is made in the Constitution in case a criminal 
flees from justice? 

If a person commits a crime in any State and 
then flees from justice, and is found in another 
State, the Executive authority of the State from 
which he fled, has a right to request that such 
person be returned to be tried and punished for 
his crime. 

If this provision were not in the Constitution, a criminal 
could escape from one State to another and be free from pun- 
ishment. Every State would be a place of refuge for thieves 
and criminals. 

Extradiction. — The officers of one State have no power, or 
authority, in another State. A criminal, fleeing from justice, 
must be delivered up to the State claiming him, by the proper 
officers of the State in which he is found. 

The person delivered up, must be sued for the crime before a 
court having power over his case; then the governor of the State 
in which the crime was committed, demands the return of the 
fugitive from the governor of the State in which he is found. 
(Requisition Papers). 

Although there is no provision in the Constitution compelling 
a governor to deliver up a fugitive, still the demand is usually 
complied with. 



CHAPTER XXII. 
New States. 

Article IV. — Section 3. 

Clause 1. "New States may be admitted by the Congress into 
this Union; but no new State shall be formed, or erected, within the 
jurisdiction of any other State; nor^ any State be formed, by the 
junction of two or more States, or parts of States, without the consent 
of the legislatures of the States concerned, as well as of the Congress." 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 67 

153. By whom are new States admitted into the Union? 

New States are admitted into the Union by- 
Congress. 

When a territory has a population entitling it to one Repre- 
sentative in Congress, it may petition Congress for admission 
into the Union as a State. 

*154. What power is denied to Congress in respect to the erection 
of States? 

Congress is denied the power to erect a new 
State within the jurisdiction of any State, or by 
the junction of two or more States, or parts of 
States, without the consent of these States. 

Clause 2. "The Congress shall have power to dispose of and 
make all needful rules and regulations respecting the territory, or 
other property, belonging to the United States; and nothing in this 
Constitution shall be so construed as to prejudice any claims of the 
United States, or of any particular State." 

*155. What power has Congress over the property of the United 
States? 

Congress has the power to dispose of and make 
all rules and regulations regarding the territory 
or other property belonging to the United States. 

When a section of country has a sufficient population to 
need a local government, the inhabitants may petition Congress 
for a territorial government. If Congress sees fit, the request 
is granted; and a law is passed, organizing the section into a 
territory. A governor, judges, and other officers are appointed 
for it by the President; the people electing their Legislature. 
Congress, however, may pass laws and enforce them within 
the territory, or annul any law made by its Legislature. 

N. B. — Clause 3 is practically repealed by Amendment XIII. 



68 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

Section IV.— Guarantee to the States. 

"The United States shall guarantee to every State in this Union 
a republican form of government, and shall protect each of them 
against invasion; and on application of the Legislature, or of the 
Executive (when the Legislature cannot be convened), against domestic 
violence." 

*156. What do the United States guarantee to every State and its 
people? 

The United States guarantee to every State 
and the people thereof a republican form of gov- 
ernment, and will not tolerate any other form. 

*157. What do the United States pledge themselves to do for every 
State? 

The United States pledge themselves to protect 
every State against invasion, and also against do- 
mestic rebellion, or riot, if requested to do so by 
the State Legislature, or by the Governor, if the 
Legislature cannot be convened. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

The Power of Amendment. 

Article V. 

"The Congress, whenever two-thirds of both Houses shall deem it 
necessary, shall propose amendments to this Constitution, or, on the 
application of the legislatures of two-thirds of the several States, shall 
call a convention for proposing amendments, which, in either case, 
shall be valid to all intents and purposes, as part of this Constitution, 
when ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States, 
or by conventions in three-fourths thereof, as the one or the other mode 
of ratification may be proposed by the Congress: Provided, that no 
amendment, which may be made prior to the year one thousand eight 
hundred and eight, shall, in any manner, affect the first and fourth 
clauses in the ninth section of the first article; and that no State, with- 
out its consent, shall be deprived of its equal suffrage in the Senate." 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 69 

*158. How many ways may amendments to the Constitution be pro- 
proposed? 

Amendments to the Constitution may be pro- 
posed in two ways: 1st, By Congress, whenever 
two-thirds of both Houses consider it necessary; 
2d, By a National Convention called together by 
Congress on the application of at least two-thirds 
of the State Legislatures. 

*159. In how many ways do amendments become valid as a part of 
the Constitution? 

Amendments become valid as a part of the Con- 
stitution in two ways: 1st, By the ratification of 
three-fourths of the State Legislatures; 2d, By 
the ratification of three-fourths of the State Con- 
ventions, called for this purpose. 

Congress determines which of the two methods is to be used. 
More than 1,700 amendments to the Constitution have been pro- 
posed, but only fifteen have been ratified. These now form a 
part of the Constitution. 

*160. What limitation was made to the power of amendment? 

No State, without its consent, shall be deprived 
of its equal suffrage in the Senate. 



CHAPTER XXIV. 

Public Debts, Supremacy of the Constitution, Oath of 
Office, and Religious Test. 

Article VI. 

Clause 1. * 'All debts contracted, and engagements entered into, 
before the adoption of this Constitution, shall be as valid against the 
United States, under this Constitution, as under the Confederation." 

This clause relates to the assumption of the debts contracted 
under the Confederation. 



70 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

Clause 2. "This Constitution, and the laws of the United States 
which shall be made in pursuance thereof, and all treaties made, or 
which shall be made, under the authority of the United States, shall 
be the supreme law of the land; and the judges in every State shall be 
bound thereby, anything in the Co7istitution or laws of any State to the 
contrary notwithstanding." 



*161. What is declared in regard to the Constitution, and the Laws 
and Treaties made under it? 

The Constitution, and the Laws and Treaties 
made under it by the National Government, are 
the Supreme Law of our country. 

*162. What provision is made to secure the supremacy of the Con- 
stitution, etc.? 

The Judges of every State are bound by the 
Constitution, and the Laws and Treaties made 
under it, when rendering their decision, even if 
any State Constitution or law conflicted with the 
same. 

Clause 3. "The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, 
and the members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive 
and judicial officers, both of the United States, and of the several 
States, shall be bound by oath or affirmation, to support this Constitu- 
tion; but no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to 
any office or public trust under the United States." 

*163. What officers must take an oath or make affirmation to sup- 
port the Constitution? 

All the officers of the three departments of the 
National Government and of the several States are 
bound by oath or affirmation to support the Con- 
stitution of the United States. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 71 

164. May a religious test be required as a qualification for any 
United States office? 

No religious test of any kind may ever be 
required as a qualification for any office or public 
trust under the United States. 

Every citizen of the United States has perfect freedom in his 
religious belief. Every man stands solely on his merits as a 
citizen of the Union. 



CHAPTER XXV. 

Ratification of the Constitution. 

Article VII. 

"The ratification of the Conventions of nine States shall be suf- 
ficient for the establishment of this Constitution between the States so 
ratifying the same.' 1 '' 

The ratification of nine of the States was necessary to estab- 
lish this Constitution. As a matter of fact, it was only bind- 
ing upon the States that ratified it. By 1788 eleven States had 
signed it. Rhode Island and North Carolina refused to sign; 
they came in later on. 



PART VI. 

THE AMENDMENTS, 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

Amendment 1. "Congress shall make no law respecting an 
establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof or 
abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the 
people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a re- 
dress of grievances.'" 

165. How many amendments are there to the Constitution? 

There are fifteen amendments to the Consti- 
tution. 

166. May Congress establish a State religion or a State church? 

Congress may not establish a State religion or 
a State church. 

167 • May Congress interfere with the religious institutions and 
convictions of the people? 

Congress may not interfere with the religious 
institutions and convictions of the people as ]ong 
as they do not interfere with the liberty of others. 

168. What restriction is there upon Congress regarding freedom of 
speech and of the press? 

Congress has no right to interfere with the free- 
dom of speech and of the press. 

This does not mean that a person may slander and libel 
others when he feels like doing so. All of the States have laws 
protecting persons against slander and libel. 

Slander consists in uttering a false report, or tale, with the 
intention of injuring the character of others. Libel is published 
slander. It may be written or printed, or by pictures, effigies 
or other signs. Libel is considered the greater offense of the 
two. 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 73 

*169. What restriction is there upon Congress regarding the right 
of the people to assemble and to petition the Government? 

Congress may not make a law abridging- the 
right of the people peaceably to assemble, and 
to petition the Government for a redress of 
grievances. 

Amendment 2. "A well-regulated militia, being necessary to 
the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear 
arms, shall not be infringed" 

Amendment 3. "No soldier shall, in time of peace, be quartered 
in any house, without the consent of the owner; nor, in time of war, 
but in a manner to be prescribed by law." 

Amendment 4. "The right of the people to be secure in their 
persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and 
seizures, shall not be violated; and no warrants shall issue, but upon 
probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly de- 
scribing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized." 

*170. According to Article IV, what right of the people shall not 
be violated? 

The right of the people to be secure in their 
persons, houses, papers, and effects, against un- 
reasonable search and seizure, shall not be violated. 

*171. Under what conditions may warrants be issued? 

Warrants may be issued only upon probable 
cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and par- 
ticularly describing the place to be searched, and 
the persons or things to be seized. 

In this country every man's house is his castle. No one, even 
if he be the President, Governor, or officer of any rank, has a 
right to enter the humblest cottage in the land without the con- 
sent of the person occupying the same, unless legally authorized 
to do so. 

Searches and seizures may not be made unless the party 
complaining, make oath or affirmation that a crime has been 
committed, and that he has good reasons to believe that the 



74 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

persons or things to be seized, are hidden in a particular place. 
The proper judicial authority must then issue a warrant, per- 
mitting- the search and seizure. This warrant must contain 
an exact description of the place to be searched, and of the 
persons or things to be seized. 

This provision, however, does not prevent a police officer 
from forcibly entering a house, without a warrant, for the pur- 
pose of arresting a person, when a crime is being committed 
therein, or in other exceptional cases. But the person, thus 
arrested, must be taken immediately before the proper au- 
thority; and the officer must prove that such action was neces 
sary. 

N. B.— For Amendments V, VI, VII, and VIII, refer to the 
Judiciary Department, on pages 61 and 63. 

Amendment 9. " The enumeration in the Constitution of certain 
rights shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by 
the people." 

Amendment 10. "The powers not granted to the United States 
by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to 
the States respectively, or to the people." 

*172. What rights and powers are reserved to the States? 

All rights and powers are reserved to the 
States that are not expressly, or by necessary im- 
plication, vested in the National Government by 
the Constitution of the United States, and are not 
denied them by the same. 

N. B. — Amendment XI has been discussed under the Ju- 
diciary, page 60. 

Amendment XII has been discussed under the Executive De- 
partment, page 49. 

Amendment 13. Section 1. "Neither slavery nor involun- 
tary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party 
shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, 
or any place subject to their jurisdiction. " 

Section 2. "Congress shall have power to enforce this article 
by appropriate legislation." 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 75 

The adoption of the thirteenth amendment, in 
1865, legally freed all the slaves within the United 
States, and prohibited slavery forever within 
their limits, and in all places subject to their 
jurisdiction. 

Amendment 14. Section 1. "All persons born or naturalized 
in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citi- 
zens of the United States, and of the State wherein they reside. No 
State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privi- 
leges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any 
State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due pro- 
cess of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal 
protection of the laws." 

173. What is the constitutional definition of a citizen? 

"All persons born or naturalized in the United 
States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are 
citizens of the United States, and of the State 
wherein they reside." 

Section 1, of this amendment, made the negro a citizen of 
the United States, with all the civil rights of other citizens, 
but it did not give him the political rights. No State could 
deny him the privilege of buying, selling, and holding prop- 
erty, or engaging in business, etc. 

Section 2. "Representatives shall be apportioned among the 
several States according to their respective numbers, counting the 
whole number of persons in each State, excluding Indians not taxed, 
But when the right to vote at any election for the choice of Electors for 
President and Vice-President of the United States, Representatives in 
Congress, the executive and judicial officers of a State, or the members 
of the Legislatures thereof, is denied to any of the male inhabitants of 
such State, being twenty-one years of age, and citizens of the United 
States, or in any way abridged, except for participation in rebellion 
or other crime, the basis of representation therein shall be reduced in 
the proportion which the number of such male citizens shall bear to the 
whole number of male citizens, twenty -one years of age, in such 
State." 



76 OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 

The negro, having* been made a citizen by sec- 
tion 1, of this amendment, was entitled to repre- 
sentation in Congress. It was feared that some 
States would deny him the right to vote, although 
counting him as an inhabitant; and, by so doing, 
give the white population a representation in Con- 
gress to which it was not entitled by law. There- 
fore the second section of this amendment pro- 
vides, that, if any State denies the right to vote to 
any male citizen of the United States, twenty-one 
years of age, the representation in Congress of 
that State shall be decreased in the same propor- 
tion. 

Section 3. "No person shall be a Senator or Representative in 
Congress, or Elector of President and Vice-President, or held any office, 
civil or military, under the United States, or under any State, who, 
having previously taken an oath as a member of Congress, or as an 
officer of the United States, or as a member of any State Legislature, 
or as an executive or judicial officer of any State, to support the Con- 
stitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection 
or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies 
thereof But Congress may, by a vote of two-thirds of each House, re- 
move such disability." 

This section denies the privilege of holding 
office to all persons who, having once sworn to sup- 
port the Constitution of the United States, after- 
wards break this oath by engaging in insurrec- 
tion or rebellion against the United States, or giv- 
ing aid or comfort to their enemies. Congress, 
however, has the power to remove this disability, 
and has so far done so in all such cases. (Civil 
War.) 

Section 4. u The validity of the public debt of the United States, 
authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions, 
and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, 
shall not be questioned. But neither the United States nor any State 



OUR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT. 77 

shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insur- 
rection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the 
loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations, and 
claims shall be held illegal and void.'" 

Section 5. "Congress shall have power to enforce, by appro- 
priate legislation, the provisions of this article." 

The fourth section of this amendment was added 
to the Constitution, because it was feared that an 
attempt might be made to repudiate the debts in- 
curred during the Civil War, and such arising in 
consequence thereof. This section also makes 
null and void all the debts incurred by the South- 
ern States in the Civil War, while in rebellion 
against the United States. 

Amendment 15. Section 1. "The right of citizens of the 
United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United 
States, or by any 'State, on account of race, color, or previous condition 
of servitude." 

Section 2. "The Congress shall have power to enforce this 
article by appropriate legislation." 

We have seen that the fourteenth amendment 
bestowed on the negro the civil rights of other citi- 
zens. Each State, however, had the power to 
withhold from him the political rights, that is the 
right to vote. The fifteenth amendment, adopted 
in 1870, restricts this power of the States, in such 
a manner, that a State may not deny the right to 
vote to any person on account of race, color, or 
previous condition of servitude, thus, making the 
negro the political equal of his white fellow- 
citizens. 

FINIS. 



STATES. 



1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 

10 
11 
12 
13 



Delaware 

Pennsylvania.. . 

New Jersey 

Georgia 

Connecticut 

Massachusetts. 

Maryland 

South Carolina. 
New Hampshire 

Virginia 

New York 

North Carolina. 
Rhode Island . . . 

Vermont 

Kentucky 

Tennessee 

Ohio 

Louisiana 

Indiana 

Mississippi 

Illinois 

Alabama 

Maine 

Missouri 

Arkansas 

Michigan 

Florida 

Texas 

Iowa 

Wisconsin 

California 

Minnesota 

Oregon 

Kansas 

West Virginia . . 

Nevada 

Nebraska 

Colorado 

North Dakota.. 
South Dakota .. 

Montana 

Washington . . . . 

Idaho 

Wyoming 

Utah 

Oklahoma 



Ratified the 
Constitution. 



5 a S 

aJ i Co 
tf 3 a 



Dec. 

Dec. 

Dec. 

Jan. 

Jan. 

Feb. 

April 

May 

June 

June 

July 

Nov. 

May 



7, 1787 
12, 1787 
18, 1787 
2, 1788 
9, 1788 
6, 1788 

28, 1788 
23, 1788 
21, 1788 

25, 1788 

26, 1788 
21, 1789 

29, 1790 



1 

32 

10 

11 

5 

14 

6 

7 

2 

10 

37 

10 

2 



a 



Popula- 
tion, U.S. 
Census of 
1900 



3 

34 

12 

13 

7 

16 

8 

9 

4 

12 

39 

12 

4 



184,735 
6,302,115 
1,883,669 
2,216,331 

908,420 
2,805,346 
1,188,044 
1,340,316 

411,588 
1,854,184 
7,268,894 
1,893,810 

428,556 



Area 

in 

Square 

Miles. 



2,050 
45,215 

7,815 
59,475 

4,990 

8,315 
12,210 
30,570 

9,305 
42,450 
49,170 
52,250 

1,250 



14 
15 
16 
17 

18 
19 
20 
21 

22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
29 
30 
31 
32 
33 
34 
35 
36 
37 
38 
39 
40 
41 
42 
43 
44 
45 
46 



Admitted to theUnion 



March 

June 

June 

Feb. 

April 

Dec. 

Dec. 

Dec. 

Dec. 

March 

Aug. 

June 

Jan. 

March 

Dec. 

Dec. 

May 

Sept. 

May 

Feb. 

Jan. 

June 

Oct. 

March 

Aug. 

Nov. 

Nov. 

Nov. 

Nov. 

July 

July 

Jan. 

June 



4. 1791 

1. 1792 
1, 1796 

19, 1803 

30, 1812 
11. 1816 
10, 1817., 

3, 181$? 
14,1819 

15, 1820 

10, 1821 
15, 1836 
26, 1837 

3, 1845 
29, 1845 

28, 1846 

29, 1848 
9, 1850 

11, 1858 
14, 1859 
29, 1863 
19, 1863 

31, 1864 
1, 1867 

1, 1876 
2, 1889 

2, 1889 
8, 1889 

11, 1889 

3, 1890 
10, 1890 

4, 1896 

16, 1906 



2 
11 
10 

21 
7 

13 
8 

25 
9 
4 

16 
7 

12 
3 

16 

11 

11 
8 
9 
2 
8 
5 
1 
6 
3 
2 
2 
1 
3 
1 
1 
1 
5 



4 

13 

12 

23 

9 

15 
10 
27 
11 
6 

18 
9 

14 

5 

18 

13 

13 

10 

11 

4 

10 

7 

3 

8 

5 

4 

4 

3 

5 

3 

3 

3 

7 



343,641 

2,147,174 

2,020.616 

4,157,545 

1,381,625 

2,516,462 

1,551,270 

4,821,550 

1,828,697 

694,466 

3,106,665 

1,311,564 

2,420,982 

528,542 

3,048,710 

2,231,853 

2,069,042 

1,485,053 

1 751,394 

413,536 

1,470,495 

958,800 

42-335 

1,066,300 

539,700 

319,146 

401,570 

243,329 

518.103 

161,772 

92,531 

276,749 

790,391 



9,565 
40,400 
42,050 
41,060 
48,720 
36,350 
46,810 
56,650 
52.250 
33,040 
69,415 
53,850 
58,915 
58,680 

265,780 
56,025 
56,040 

158,360 
83.365 
90,030 
82,080 
24,780 

110.700 
77,510 

103,925 
70,795 
77,650 

146,080 
69,180 
84.800 
97,890 
84,970 
70,430 



391 



483 



76,695,447 



TERRITORIES. 



New Mexico 

Arizona 

Alaska 

District of Columbia 
Philippine Islands . . 

Porto Rico 

Guam 

Hawaii 

Samoan Islands 



Organized. 



Sept. 

Feb. 

July 

March 

July 

April 

Feb. 

April 

Jan. 



9,1850. 

4,1863. 
27, 1868. 

3, 1791 . 

1,1902. 
12, 1900. 

1, 1899. 

30, 1900. 

1899. 



Popula- 
tion — U. 

S. Census 
of 1900. 



195,310 

122,931 

63,592 

278,718 

7,635,426 

953,243 

8,661 

154,001 

5,800 



Area in 
Square 
Miles. 



122,580 

113,020 

590,884 

69 

115,026 

3,606 

200 

6,740 

1,500 



CONTENTS. 



PART I. 
Introductory. 



Chapter I. Government in General, p. 5; Government, its Object, 
and how attained; p. 5; Principal Forms of Government, p. 5. 

Chapter II. Our Government from 1775-1781, p. 6; Continental 
Congress, p. 7. 

Chapter III. Our Government from 1781-1789, p. 7; Articles of 
Confederation, p. 7; Powers of Congress, p. 8; Defects of 
Articles, p. 8; Constitutional Convention, pp. 8-9. 

PART II. 

Our Government under the Present Constitution. 

Chapter IV. General View, p. 10; Constitution defined, p. 10; 
The Preamble and its Objects, p. 10; Departments of Govern- 
ment, p. 11. 

Chapter V. The Legislative Department, Article I, Section 1, p. 11; 
Power vested in Congress, p. 11; Branches of Congress, p. 11. 

Chapter VI. The House of Representatives, Article 1, Section 2, 
p. 12; Representatives, how elected, Term of Office, and Quali- 
fications, p. 12; Number of Representatives and Apportionment, 
p. 13; Census, p. 13; Congressional Districts, p. 13; Number 
in House, p. 13; Vacancies, p. 14; Officers of the House, p. 14; 
Power of Impeachment, p. 15. 

Chapter VII. The Senate of the U?iited States, Article I, Section 3, 
p. 15; Number of Senators, p. 15; By whom elected, p. 15; 
Term of Office, p. 15; Classification, p. 16; Vacancies, p. 16; 
Qualifications, p. 16; President of the Senate, p. 16; Other 
Officers, p. 17; Powers to try Impeachments, p. 17; Require- 
ments for Conviction and Judgment, p. 18. 

Chapter VIII. Both Houses, Article I, Section 4, p. 18; Time of 
Elections, p. 19; Meeting of Congress, p. 19. 

Chapter IX. The Houses Separately, Article I, Section 5, p. 20; 
Power over Membership, Quorum, Majority, Power of Mi- 
nority, p. 20; Rules of Proceedings and Power of Expulsion, 
p. 21; The Journal, p. 21 ; c Yeas and Nays, p. 21; Adjourn- 
ment, p. 21. 

Chapter X. Compensation, Privileges and Prohibitions on Mem- 
bers, Article 1, Section 6, p. 22; Salary and how fixed, p. 22; 
Freedom from Arrest, p. 23; Freedom of Speech, p. 23; Eligi- 
bility to Civil Office, p. 23. 



ii CONTENTS. 

Chapter XI. Manner of Passing Laws ', Article I, Section 7, p. 24; 
Where Bills originate, p. 24; Revenue Bills, p. 24; How Bills 
become Laws, p. 25; Other Resolutions besides Bills, p. 26. 

Chapter XII. The Law-making Powers of Congress, Article 1, 
Section 8, p. 26; Clause i, Laying- Taxes, p. 26; Clause 2, Bor- 
rowing Money, p. 27; Clause 3, Regulating Commerce, p, 27; 
Clause 4, Naturalization, p. 27; Bankruptcy, p. 28; Clause 5, 
Coinage, Weights and Measures, p. 29; Clause 6, Counterfeit- 
ing, p. 29; Clause 7, Post-offices and Post Roads, p. 29; 
Clause 8, Copy-right and Patent Right, p. 29; Clause 9, In- 
ferior Courts, p. 30; Clause 10, Piracy and Felony, p. 30; 
Clause 11, Declaration of War and Letters of Marque, p. 30; 
Clauses 12 and 13, Army and Navy, p. 30; Clause 14, Regulat- 
ing the Army and Navy, p. 31; Clauses 13 and 16, The Militia, 
p. 31; Clause 17, Seat of Government, Forts, Magazines, etc., 
p. 32; Clause 18, General Power, p. 32. 

Chapter XIII. Powers Denied to the United States, Article I, Sec- 
tion 9, p. 32; Importation of Slaves, p. 32; Habeas Corpus, 
p. 33; Capitation and Direct Taxes, p. 33; Export Duties, etc., 
p. 34; Drawing Money from Treasury, p. 34; Titles of Nobility, 
etc., p. 35. 

Chapter XIV. Powers denied to the States, Article I, Section 10, 
p. 35; Treaties, Alliances, etc, p. 35; Coinage, Bills of Credit, 
Legal Tender, etc., p. 36; Laying Imposts or Duties, p. 37; 
Inspection Laws, p. 37; Keeping Troops or Ships of War, etc., 
p. 38; Engaging in War, p. 38. 

PART III. 

The Executive Department. 

Chapter XV. President and Vice-President, Article II, Section 1, 
p. 39; Executive Power, in whom vested, p. 39. 

BRIEF SKETCH OF THE DEPARTMENTS. 

Department of State, p. 40. 
Department of the Treasury, p. 40. 
Department of War, p. 42. 
Department of the Navy, p. 44. 
Department of Justice, p. 44. 
Post-office Department, p. 45. 
Department of the Interior, p. 45. 
Department of* Agriculture, p. 46. 
Department of Commerce and Labor, p. 47. 

Term of Office of President, p. 48; Presidential Electors, p. 
48; Time fixed for Choosing Electors, p. 48; Amendment, 
Article XII, p. 49; Methods of Electing the President, p. 50; 
Qualifications for the Presidency, p. 51; Vacancy in the Presi- 
dency, p. 51; Presidential Succession Law, p. 52; Salary, p. 
52; Inauguration, p. 53. 



CONTENTS. iii 

Chapter XVI. Powers of the President, Article II, Section 2, p. 53; 
Commander-in-Chief of Army and Navy, p. 53; Reprieves and 
Pardons, p. 54; Power to make Treaties, p. 55; Power to 
fill Vacancies, p. 55. 

Chapter XVII. Duties of the President, Article II, Section 3, p. 56; 
Message to Congress, p. 56; Most Important Duty of the Presi- 
dent, p. 56; Commissioning Officers, p. 56. 

PART IV. 

The Judicial Department. 

Chapter XVIII. The United States Courts, Article III, Section 1, 
p. 57; Judicial Power, in whom vested, p. 57; Supreme Court, 
p. 57; Inferior Courts, p. 57; Appointment of Judges, etc., p. 58. 

Chapter XIX. Jurisdiction of the United States Courts, Article III, 
p. 58; Extent of Jurisdiction, pp. 58 and 59; Jurisdiction of 
Supreme Court, p. 59; Private Citizen suing a State, p. 60; 
Method and Place of Trial, p. 60; Capital and Infamous 
Crimes, p. 61; Presentment and Indictment, p. 61; Grand 
Jury, p. 61; Second Trial for same Offense, p. 62; Compelling 
One to be a Witness against Oneself, p. 62; Depriving One of 
L/ife, Liberty, or Property, p. 62; Taking Private Property 
for Public Use, p. 62; Rights of Accused Persons, p. 63; The 
Petit Jury, p. 63; Amendment VII, p. 63; Excessive Bail, etc., 
p. 63. 

Chapter XX. Treason, Article III, Section 3, p. 64; Treason de- 
fined, p. 64; Proof of Treason, p. 64; Penalty for Treason, p. 64. 

PART V. 

Miscellaneous Provisions. 

Chapter XXI. Relations of the States, Article IV, Sections 1-2, 
State Records, p. 65; Privileges of Citizens, p. 65; Criminals 
fleeing from Justice, p. 66; Extradiction, p. 66. 

Chapter XXII. New States, Article IV, Section 3, p. 66; By whom 
admitted, p. 67; Power of Congress over Property and Terri- 
tory of the United States, p. 67; Section 4, Guarantee to the 
States, p. 68; Protection against Invasion and Rebellion, p. 68. 

Chapter XXIII. Power of Amendment, Article V, p. 68; Ways of 
proposing Amendments, p. 69; How Amendments become valid; 
p. 69; Limitation to the Power of Amendment, p. 69. 

Chapter XXIV. Public Debts, Supremacy of the Constitution, Oath 
of Office, and Religious Test, Article VI, p. 69; Assumption of 
the Debt of the Confederation, p. 69; Supremacy of Constitu- 
tion, etc., p. 70; Provision to secure Supremacy, p. 70; Oath of 
Office, of whom required, p. 70; Religious Test, p. 71. 

Chapter XXV. Ratification of the Constitution, Article VII, p. 71; 



iv CONTENTS. 

PART VI. 

The Amendments. 

Chapter XXVI. Amendment i, Freedom of Religion, p. 72; Free- 
dom of Speech and of the Press, p. 72; Right of People to 
assemble, p. 73; Amendment II, Right to keep and bear Arms, 
p. 73; Amendment III, Quartering Soldiers, p. 73; Amendment 
IV, Searches and Seizures, p. 73; Issuing Warrants, p. 73; 
Amendments V, VI, VII arid VIII, p. 61 and 63; Amendment 
IX, Mode of Construing the Constitution, p. 74; Amendment X, 
Rights and Powers reserved to the States, p. 74; Amendment 
XI, p. 60, (Judiciary Department); Amendment XII, p. 49, 
(Executive Department); Amendment XIII, Abolition of 
Slavery, p. 74; Amendment XIV, Definition of Citizenship, p. 
75; Giving Negro the Civil Rights, p. 75; Disability to hold 
Office of the United States, p. 76; Validity of the Public Debt, 
p. 77. Amendment XV, Political Rights, the Right to Vote, 
p. 77. 

APPENDIX. 

Table of States and Territories, 

Their Date of Admission; Number of Representatives; Electoral Vote; 
Population; Area, p. 78. 




MAR 18J907 



m 




^^as&\3m : ^ 



